A team from the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) arrived at the Michaelpatti village in Tamil Nadu's Thanjavur district to probe the suicide of a minor schoolgirl. In a video, the victim was seen mentioning about the attempts of her school staff to forcibly convert her to Christianity and having troubled, overburdened her with work. The investigation of this case, which was initially being carried out by the Tamil Nadu Police was handed over to the CBI, as per directions from the Madras High Court. The parents had approached the Court, expressing apprehensions over the credibility of the Police probe.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-court-sentences-indian-politician-lalu-prasad-to-five-years-in-prison-in-fodder-scam-case-455047">CBI court sentences Indian politician Lalu Prasad to five years in prison in fodder scam case</a>

The case pertains to a 17-year old girl from a poor background, who studied in a Christian Missionary School in Tamil Nadu’s Thanjavur district. According to Police, the victim had consumed poisonous material on 9th January and had succumbed ten days later. In a video, the victim is seen saying, “In front of me also they asked my parents about converting me to Christianity, so that she would make me study. She would also keep scolding me and not let me stay there”. When asked who she was referring to, the victim is heard saying "Sister Rachel Mary”. When asked if she was tortured because she refused to convert to Christianity, the victim is heard saying “it could be possible”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/stepping-into-5th-year-in-politics-kamal-haasan-says-next-target-is-2024-parliamentary-polls-455043">Stepping into 5th year in Politics, Kamal Haasan says next target is 2024 Parliamentary Polls</a>

As per the Legal Rights Protection Forum’s(LRPF) complaint to India’s National Commission for Protection of Child Rights(NCPCR), the victim’s school had been illegally converting children into Christianity and was imposing corporal punishments on those who resisted. It added that this was causing mental agony to students and driving them to extreme steps. “The victim was forced to convert into Christianity and when she refused the same, she was refused permission to return home from hostel. She was made to clean toilets and wash dishes” reads the complaint. It also adds that the child tried to end her life owing to the atrocities inflicted upon her(following which, she eventually succumbed).

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-prime-minister-modi-inaugurates-asias-biggest-gobar-dhan-plant-in-indore-454538">&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Modi inaugurates Asia's biggest 'gobar-dhan' plant in Indore</a>

The bereaved family had initially approached the Court seeking a CB-CID probe into the case. This was after, Thanjavur SP, Ravali Priya,IPS, had blatantly denied any 'forced&nbsp;conversion&nbsp;angle' in the case, even before the investigation began to take shape. Later, even influential Ministers in Tamil Nadu had denied the Conversion angle. Following the Court order for a CBI probe, the Tamil Nadu Government had challenged the same in the Supreme Court. However, the apex court directed the CBI to continue its probe in the case.

A team from the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) arrived at the Michaelpatti village in Tamil Nadu's Thanjavur district to probe the suicide of a minor schoolgirl.

A team from the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) arrived at the Michaelpatti village in Tamil Nadu's Thanjavur district to probe the suicide of a minor schoolgirl. In a video, the victim was seen mentioning about the attempts of her school staff to forcibly convert her to Christianity and having troubled, overburdened her with work. The investigation of this case, which was initially being carried out by the Tamil Nadu Police was handed over to the CBI, as per directions from the Madras High Court. The parents had approached the Court, expressing apprehensions over the credibility of the Police probe. Also read | CBI court sentences Indian politician Lalu Prasad to five years in prison in fodder scam case The case pertains to a 17-year old girl from a poor background, who studied in a Christian Missionary School in Tamil Nadu’s Thanjavur district. According to Police, the victim had consumed poisonous material on 9th January and had succumbed ten days later. In a video, the victim is seen saying, “In front of me also they asked my parents about converting me to Christianity, so that she would make me study. She would also keep scolding me and not let me stay there”. When asked who she was referring to, the victim is heard saying "Sister Rachel Mary”. When asked if she was tortured because she refused to convert to Christianity, the victim is heard saying “it could be possible”. Also read | Stepping into 5th year in Politics, Kamal Haasan says next target is 2024 Parliamentary Polls As per the Legal Rights Protection Forum’s(LRPF) complaint to India’s National Commission for Protection of Child Rights(NCPCR), the victim’s school had been illegally converting children into Christianity and was imposing corporal punishments on those who resisted. It added that this was causing mental agony to students and driving them to extreme steps. “The victim was forced to convert into Christianity and when she refused the same, she was refused permission to return home from hostel. She was made to clean toilets and wash dishes” reads the complaint. It also adds that the child tried to end her life owing to the atrocities inflicted upon her(following which, she eventually succumbed). Also read | Indian Prime Minister Modi inaugurates Asia's biggest 'gobar-dhan' plant in Indore The bereaved family had initially approached the Court seeking a CB-CID probe into the case. This was after, Thanjavur SP, Ravali Priya,IPS, had blatantly denied any 'forced conversion angle' in the case, even before the investigation began to take shape. Later, even influential Ministers in Tamil Nadu had denied the Conversion angle. Following the Court order for a CBI probe, the Tamil Nadu Government had challenged the same in the Supreme Court. However, the apex court directed the CBI to continue its probe in the case.

Tamil Nadu: CBI visits school, begins probe in alleged forced Conversion, suicide of minor girl

Residents of Tamil Nadu’s Coimbatore city were in for a surprise when they witnessed a foreigner campaigning for the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party for the urban body elections.

Negoita Stefan Marius, a Romanian national who is on a business trip to India, was seen draped in a red and black shawl (DMK party colours) and distributing propaganda pamphlets of the ruling party.

Marius was reportedly impressed with the schemes rolled by the DMK party, especially the free bus travel for women.

Videos of Marius riding&nbsp;a bike and distributing propaganda pamphlets went viral on social media, where he was hailed by the supporters of the ruling party.&nbsp;

In two separate clips, Stefan was purportedly seen roaming around Coimbatore without a face mask and endorsing Chief Minister MK Stalin.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Thread: Romanian national on business Visa, Stefan Marius seen campaigning for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DMK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DMK</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LocalBodyElection?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LocalBodyElection</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Coimbatore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Coimbatore</a> 
 
They say, he was impressed with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TNGovt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TNGovt</a> scheme to provide free bus passes for women, enabling free travel on Govt buses <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Politics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Politics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNews</a> 
 
(1/n) <a href="https://t.co/vQB9cp11I3">pic.twitter.com/vQB9cp11I3</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1494313374741839886?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

However, the clips also caught the attention of the Indian immigration authorities who have called in Marius to explain his actions.

According to reports, the immigration authorities have sent a letter to Marius saying that he violated the Indian visa rules by campaigning for a political party.

They have asked the Romanian national to appear in-person at the Chennai office of the immigration department (Foreign Regional Registration office) with his original documents and offer an explanation by Friday (February 18) afternoon.

The letter mentions that if he fails to comply with the missive, he would be liable for prosecution under Section 14 of the Foreigners Act, 1946.

However, the authenticity of the letter could not be verified independently, as the officials&nbsp;concerned were not available for comments.

Residents of Tamil Nadu’s Coimbatore city were in for a surprise when they witnessed a foreigner campaigning for the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party for the urban body elections.

Residents of Tamil Nadu’s Coimbatore city were in for a surprise when they witnessed a foreigner campaigning for the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party for the urban body elections. Negoita Stefan Marius, a Romanian national who is on a business trip to India, was seen draped in a red and black shawl (DMK party colours) and distributing propaganda pamphlets of the ruling party. Marius was reportedly impressed with the schemes rolled by the DMK party, especially the free bus travel for women. Videos of Marius riding a bike and distributing propaganda pamphlets went viral on social media, where he was hailed by the supporters of the ruling party. In two separate clips, Stefan was purportedly seen roaming around Coimbatore without a face mask and endorsing Chief Minister MK Stalin. Thread: Romanian national on business Visa, Stefan Marius seen campaigning for #DMK in #LocalBodyElection in #Coimbatore They say, he was impressed with #TNGovt scheme to provide free bus passes for women, enabling free travel on Govt buses #Politics #India #TamilNews (1/n) pic.twitter.com/vQB9cp11I3 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) February 17, 2022 × However, the clips also caught the attention of the Indian immigration authorities who have called in Marius to explain his actions. According to reports, the immigration authorities have sent a letter to Marius saying that he violated the Indian visa rules by campaigning for a political party. They have asked the Romanian national to appear in-person at the Chennai office of the immigration department (Foreign Regional Registration office) with his original documents and offer an explanation by Friday (February 18) afternoon. The letter mentions that if he fails to comply with the missive, he would be liable for prosecution under Section 14 of the Foreigners Act, 1946. However, the authenticity of the letter could not be verified independently, as the officials concerned were not available for comments.

Romanian national in trouble for canvassing votes for ruling party in Tamil Nadu polls

Delhi batter Yash Dhull on Thursday registered a century on his first-class debut in the ongoing Ranji Trophy Elite Group H contest.

Dhull scored a ton against Tamil Nadu in the ongoing Elite Group H contest here at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati.

Sent out to open, Dhull brought up his century off just 133 balls with the help of 16 boundaries. In the ongoing match, Tamil Nadu won the toss and opted to bowl first.

When on 97, Dhull was dismissed by M Mohammed but the ball turned out to be a no-ball, and the young Delhi batter got a reprieve.

&nbsp;ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-1st-t20i-im-saying-it-how-virat-kohli-convinced-skipper-rohit-sharma-to-take-drs-watch-453958">India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch</a>

Earlier, Dhull had led India to a record fifth U19 World Cup triumph after the boys in blue defeated England in the summit clash.

The Ranji Trophy would be held in two phases and now it has been confirmed that the pre-Indian Premier League (IPL) phase would run from February 10 to March 15.

The post-IPL-phase would run from May 30 to June 26.

The Ranji Trophy this season would see 64 matches being played across 62 days. There are eight Elite Groups and one Plate Group.

There would be four teams in Elite Groups and six teams would make up the Plate Group.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-kishan-shares-dravids-words-of-wisdom-after-mi-star-bagged-whopping-deal-at-ipl-mega-auction-453940">Ind vs WI: Kishan shares Dravid's words of wisdom after MI star bagged whopping deal at IPL mega auction</a>

One team from each Elite Group will qualify for the quarterfinal stages. The lowest-ranked of the eight qualified teams will have to play a pre-quarterfinal with the top team from the Plate Group.

In a high-voltage clash, Saurashtra and Mumbai are locking horns in the Ranji Trophy and the contest is witnessing Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara squaring off.

Delhi batter Yash Dhull on Thursday registered a century on his first-class debut in the ongoing Ranji Trophy Elite Group H contest. Dhull scored a ton against Tamil Nadu in the ongoing Elite Group H contest here at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati.

Delhi batter Yash Dhull on Thursday registered a century on his first-class debut in the ongoing Ranji Trophy Elite Group H contest. Dhull scored a ton against Tamil Nadu in the ongoing Elite Group H contest here at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati. Sent out to open, Dhull brought up his century off just 133 balls with the help of 16 boundaries. In the ongoing match, Tamil Nadu won the toss and opted to bowl first. When on 97, Dhull was dismissed by M Mohammed but the ball turned out to be a no-ball, and the young Delhi batter got a reprieve. ALSO READ: India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch Earlier, Dhull had led India to a record fifth U19 World Cup triumph after the boys in blue defeated England in the summit clash. The Ranji Trophy would be held in two phases and now it has been confirmed that the pre-Indian Premier League (IPL) phase would run from February 10 to March 15. The post-IPL-phase would run from May 30 to June 26. The Ranji Trophy this season would see 64 matches being played across 62 days. There are eight Elite Groups and one Plate Group. There would be four teams in Elite Groups and six teams would make up the Plate Group. ALSO READ: Ind vs WI: Kishan shares Dravid's words of wisdom after MI star bagged whopping deal at IPL mega auction One team from each Elite Group will qualify for the quarterfinal stages. The lowest-ranked of the eight qualified teams will have to play a pre-quarterfinal with the top team from the Plate Group. In a high-voltage clash, Saurashtra and Mumbai are locking horns in the Ranji Trophy and the contest is witnessing Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara squaring off.

Ranji Trophy: U19 WC-winning captain Yash Dhull stars on first-class debut, smashes century against Tamil Nadu

In Pics: Inside India's first metaverse wedding

Unit 2 of Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP), the largest nuclear plant in India suffered an outage on Thursday, owing to a “loss of power supply to control rods”.&nbsp;

Located in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, the Kudankulam plant’s unit 2 has a capacity of generating up to 1,000 MW of power.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Unit 2 at India's Kudankulam Nuclear Power plant in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> suffers outage, after "loss of power supply to control rods" 
 
Incident on 6th Jan, Thursday at 11:13am 
 
KKNPP is India's largest 
 
Units 1&amp;2 produce 1000MW each &amp; units 3,4,5,6 are being built<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/india?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#india</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NuclearEnergy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NuclearEnergy</a> <a href="https://t.co/plDBxnlGfO">pic.twitter.com/plDBxnlGfO</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1479356541551591424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

According to the Power System Operation Corporation Limited (POCOSO), the outage which has been classified as a “forced outage”, took place at 11:13 am on Thursday. As per available data, Unit 2 of KKNPP had generated 415 MW of power, on Thursday prior to the outage. However, there was no time specified for its expected resumption of operations.&nbsp;

Simply put, a control rod is a device that is used to absorb neutrons. Control rods are meant to provide real-time control of the fission process in a nuclear reactor and ensure that it remains active. The nuclear reaction taking place in the reactor core can be slowed down, accelerated or stopped completely by using the control rods. Likewise, the power output of a nuclear power plant can also be regulated by means of a control rod.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-3-more-14-terrorists-killed-in-indias-jk-in-last-8-days-442832" hreflang="en">With 3 more, 14 terrorists killed in India’s J&amp;K in last 8 days</a>

KKNPP comprises six units of Light Water Reactors (VVERs), each of 1000 MW capacity. Set up in technical cooperation with the Russian Federation, the reactors at Kudankulam are state-of-the-art in terms of safety. They incorporate a combination of advanced, multi-layered safety features ensuring the highest level of safety for the plant, the public and the environment.

Being implemented in three phases of 2x1000MW each, units 1 &amp; 2 are operational, whereas 3 &amp; 4 are about 50 per cent into construction. The construction of Units 5 &amp; 6 is expected to take up to seven years. The completion of all these projects over the coming years will provide 6000MW clean energy to the country.&nbsp;

Unit 2 of Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP), the largest nuclear plant in India suffered an outage on Thursday, owing to a “loss of power supply to control rods”.

Unit 2 of Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP), the largest nuclear plant in India suffered an outage on Thursday, owing to a “loss of power supply to control rods”. Located in the Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, the Kudankulam plant’s unit 2 has a capacity of generating up to 1,000 MW of power. Unit 2 at India's Kudankulam Nuclear Power plant in #TamilNadu suffers outage, after "loss of power supply to control rods" Incident on 6th Jan, Thursday at 11:13am KKNPP is India's largest Units 1&2 produce 1000MW each & units 3,4,5,6 are being built#india #NuclearEnergy pic.twitter.com/plDBxnlGfO — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) January 7, 2022 × According to the Power System Operation Corporation Limited (POCOSO), the outage which has been classified as a “forced outage”, took place at 11:13 am on Thursday. As per available data, Unit 2 of KKNPP had generated 415 MW of power, on Thursday prior to the outage. However, there was no time specified for its expected resumption of operations. Simply put, a control rod is a device that is used to absorb neutrons. Control rods are meant to provide real-time control of the fission process in a nuclear reactor and ensure that it remains active. The nuclear reaction taking place in the reactor core can be slowed down, accelerated or stopped completely by using the control rods. Likewise, the power output of a nuclear power plant can also be regulated by means of a control rod. Also read | With 3 more, 14 terrorists killed in India’s J&K in last 8 days KKNPP comprises six units of Light Water Reactors (VVERs), each of 1000 MW capacity. Set up in technical cooperation with the Russian Federation, the reactors at Kudankulam are state-of-the-art in terms of safety. They incorporate a combination of advanced, multi-layered safety features ensuring the highest level of safety for the plant, the public and the environment. Being implemented in three phases of 2x1000MW each, units 1 & 2 are operational, whereas 3 & 4 are about 50 per cent into construction. The construction of Units 5 & 6 is expected to take up to seven years. The completion of all these projects over the coming years will provide 6000MW clean energy to the country.

Unit 2 at India’s largest nuclear power plant in Kudankulam suffers outage

Five needed off the last ball and it was Tamil Nadu batsman Shahrukh Khan who came to the party against Karnataka in the final of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy here at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Monday. Shahrukh`s 33-run cameo off 15 balls helped Tamil Nadu win the thriller by four wickets.

This is the third time that Tamil Nadu has won the Syed Mushtaq Ali tournament, having previously won it in 2006-07 and 2020-21. The side had also made it to the finals in the 2019-20 season and ended up suffering a loss against Karnataka.

Chasing 152, Tamil Nadu got off to a quickfire start as Hari Nishanth and N Jagadeeshan put on 29 runs for the first wicket, however, the partnership did not sustain itself for a long haul as Nishanth (23) was sent back to the pavilion via a run-out in the fourth over. Sai Sudharsan then joined Jagadeesan in the middle and the duo kept on moving the scoreboard at a brisk pace.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-trusts-him-a-lot-dinesh-karthik-names-indian-bowler-who-will-be-in-squad-for-t20-world-cup-2022-431206">'Rohit trusts him a lot': Dinesh Karthik names Indian bowler who will be in squad for T20 World Cup 2022</a>

Karun Nair provided the much-needed breakthrough to Karnataka as he dismissed Sudharsan (9) reducing Tamil Nadu to 51/2 in the eighth over.

Karnataka bowlers managed to maintain a stranglehold, resulting in Shankar (18) and Jagadeeshan (41) dismissal and Tamil Nadu needed 57 to win from 28 balls.

Shahrukh Khan however changed the complexion of the game as he smashed 33 runs off just 15 balls, taking Tamil Nadu to a four-wicket win.

Earlier, Abhinav Manohar and Praveen Dubey played knocks of 46 and 33 as Karnataka posted 151/7 in the allotted twenty overs. Asked to bat first, Karnataka got off to a bad start as the side lost its first three wickets with just 32 runs on the board. Rohan Kadam (0), Manish Pandey (13), and Karun Nair (18) failed to stay at the crease for a long haul.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajinkya-rahane-is-fortunate-he-is-still-in-indias-test-side-gautam-gambhir-ahead-of-new-zealand-series-431188">Rahane is fortunate he is still in India's Test side: Gautam Gambhir ahead of New Zealand series</a>

Sharath BR and Manohar put on 54 runs for the fourth wicket to bring some normalcy to Karnataka innings, and in the end, Dubey also chipped in with a 33-run knock as Karnataka posted 151/7 on the board. For Tamil Nadu, Sai Kishore scalped three wickets.

Brief Scores: Karnataka 151/7 (Abhinav Manohar 46, Praveen Dubey 33; Sai Kishore 3-12); Tamil Nadu 153/6 (N Jagadeesan 41, Shahrukh Khan 33*; KC Cariappa 2-23).&nbsp;

Five needed off the last ball and it was Tamil Nadu batsman Shahrukh Khan who came to the party against Karnataka in the final of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy here at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Monday.

Five needed off the last ball and it was Tamil Nadu batsman Shahrukh Khan who came to the party against Karnataka in the final of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy here at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Monday. Shahrukh`s 33-run cameo off 15 balls helped Tamil Nadu win the thriller by four wickets. This is the third time that Tamil Nadu has won the Syed Mushtaq Ali tournament, having previously won it in 2006-07 and 2020-21. The side had also made it to the finals in the 2019-20 season and ended up suffering a loss against Karnataka. Chasing 152, Tamil Nadu got off to a quickfire start as Hari Nishanth and N Jagadeeshan put on 29 runs for the first wicket, however, the partnership did not sustain itself for a long haul as Nishanth (23) was sent back to the pavilion via a run-out in the fourth over. Sai Sudharsan then joined Jagadeesan in the middle and the duo kept on moving the scoreboard at a brisk pace. ALSO READ: 'Rohit trusts him a lot': Dinesh Karthik names Indian bowler who will be in squad for T20 World Cup 2022 Karun Nair provided the much-needed breakthrough to Karnataka as he dismissed Sudharsan (9) reducing Tamil Nadu to 51/2 in the eighth over. Karnataka bowlers managed to maintain a stranglehold, resulting in Shankar (18) and Jagadeeshan (41) dismissal and Tamil Nadu needed 57 to win from 28 balls. Shahrukh Khan however changed the complexion of the game as he smashed 33 runs off just 15 balls, taking Tamil Nadu to a four-wicket win. Earlier, Abhinav Manohar and Praveen Dubey played knocks of 46 and 33 as Karnataka posted 151/7 in the allotted twenty overs. Asked to bat first, Karnataka got off to a bad start as the side lost its first three wickets with just 32 runs on the board. Rohan Kadam (0), Manish Pandey (13), and Karun Nair (18) failed to stay at the crease for a long haul. ALSO READ: Rahane is fortunate he is still in India's Test side: Gautam Gambhir ahead of New Zealand series Sharath BR and Manohar put on 54 runs for the fourth wicket to bring some normalcy to Karnataka innings, and in the end, Dubey also chipped in with a 33-run knock as Karnataka posted 151/7 on the board. For Tamil Nadu, Sai Kishore scalped three wickets. Brief Scores: Karnataka 151/7 (Abhinav Manohar 46, Praveen Dubey 33; Sai Kishore 3-12); Tamil Nadu 153/6 (N Jagadeesan 41, Shahrukh Khan 33*; KC Cariappa 2-23).

Shahrukh Khan's last-ball six helps TN beat Karnataka by 4 wickets in final to clinch Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy

Heavy rains kill at least 14 in India's Chennai, rescue work underway

Chennai Floods | NDRF teams deployed for rescue efforts

While hearing an alleged sexual harassment complaint against a Special DGP rank officer, the Madras High Court raised serious questions about the Tamil Nadu Police department.&nbsp;

As the victim, a woman IPS officer, was driving to file a complaint against her superior, a police officer, a Superintendent of Police(SP) had blocked her car and&nbsp;tried to dissuade her from filing the complaint.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mortal-remains-of-missing-indian-fisherman-retrieved-2-others-in-sri-lankan-custody-422376" hreflang="en">Mortal remains of missing Indian fisherman retrieved, 2 others in Sri Lankan custody</a>

A co-accused in the case, the Superintendent of Police (SP), had approached the Court to drop his name from the case, claiming that he was only acting under instructions from his superior, the Special DGP.&nbsp;

However, the presiding judge, Justice Velmurugan was not swayed by this statement, and instead questioned if the suspended cop would murder someone if he was ordered to do so by a senior. Additionally, the Judge stated that only lawful instructions could be followed.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-mammoth-covid-19-vaccination-drive-the-body-is-an-ambassador-car-but-the-engine-is-a-ferrari-422325" hreflang="en">India's mammoth COVID-19 vaccination drive: The body is an Ambassador car, but the engine is a Ferrari</a>

The Judge went on to ask how the common public would have faith in the Police Department when senior officers face such allegations. He observed that only 10 per cent of the police officers were discharging their duties as per their conscience and that such incidents were a shame to the department.&nbsp;

As the Court did not entertain the plea to discharge him from the case, the suspended SP withdrew his case.&nbsp;

While hearing an alleged sexual harassment complaint against a Special DGP rank officer, the Madras High Court raised serious questions about the Tamil Nadu Police department.

While hearing an alleged sexual harassment complaint against a Special DGP rank officer, the Madras High Court raised serious questions about the Tamil Nadu Police department. As the victim, a woman IPS officer, was driving to file a complaint against her superior, a police officer, a Superintendent of Police(SP) had blocked her car and tried to dissuade her from filing the complaint. Also read | Mortal remains of missing Indian fisherman retrieved, 2 others in Sri Lankan custody A co-accused in the case, the Superintendent of Police (SP), had approached the Court to drop his name from the case, claiming that he was only acting under instructions from his superior, the Special DGP. However, the presiding judge, Justice Velmurugan was not swayed by this statement, and instead questioned if the suspended cop would murder someone if he was ordered to do so by a senior. Additionally, the Judge stated that only lawful instructions could be followed. Also read | India's mammoth COVID-19 vaccination drive: The body is an Ambassador car, but the engine is a Ferrari The Judge went on to ask how the common public would have faith in the Police Department when senior officers face such allegations. He observed that only 10 per cent of the police officers were discharging their duties as per their conscience and that such incidents were a shame to the department. As the Court did not entertain the plea to discharge him from the case, the suspended SP withdrew his case.

'Would you commit murder if superior officer instructs you?', Madras HC asks accused cop

An Indian Coast Guard (ICG) team in southern Tamil Nadu state seized 600 kilograms of sea cucumber from a small boat that was involved in smuggling.

The market value of seized sea cucumbers is said to be around Rs 30 million ($400,000 approximately).

Based on a tip-off, the ICG team tracked the suspect vessel at Mandapam, Ramanathapuram district, and cordoned off the road to block their escape.

Subsequently, the boat was found to be anchored off Uchhipalli coast in Ramanathapuram on Tuesday afternoon.

The Coast Guard teams&nbsp;then rummaged the vessel and recovered 31 gunny bags of sea cucumber weighing 600 kgs. The boat, along with seized sea cucumbers, were then brought to Mandapam and handed over to the forest department officials.

Sea cucumbers are an important constituent of the marine ecosystem as they play a key role in maintaining the health of the ecosystem.

By excreting the inorganic nitrogen and phosphorus, sea cucumbers enhance the productivity of benthic animals —those living on the ocean floor.

One of the by-products of the sea cucumber's digestion of sand is calcium carbonate, a key component of coral reef. To survive, coral reefs must accumulate calcium carbonate, and thus sea cucumbers play a vital role in their preservation.

Sea cucumbers also maintain the transparency of seawater by eating sewage. Feeding and excretion by sea cucumbers also increase alkalinity, which counteracts ocean acidification.

Illegal harvesting and overexploitation of these animals leads to poorer sediment health, reduced nutrient recycling and impacting biodiversity.

In India, sea cucumber is treated as an endangered species and is listed under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.

An Indian Coast Guard (ICG) team in southern Tamil Nadu state seized 600 kilograms of sea cucumber from a small boat that was involved in smuggling. The market value of seized sea cucumbers is said to be around Rs 30 million ($400,000 approximately).

An Indian Coast Guard (ICG) team in southern Tamil Nadu state seized 600 kilograms of sea cucumber from a small boat that was involved in smuggling. The market value of seized sea cucumbers is said to be around Rs 30 million ($400,000 approximately). Based on a tip-off, the ICG team tracked the suspect vessel at Mandapam, Ramanathapuram district, and cordoned off the road to block their escape. Subsequently, the boat was found to be anchored off Uchhipalli coast in Ramanathapuram on Tuesday afternoon. The Coast Guard teams then rummaged the vessel and recovered 31 gunny bags of sea cucumber weighing 600 kgs. The boat, along with seized sea cucumbers, were then brought to Mandapam and handed over to the forest department officials. Sea cucumbers are an important constituent of the marine ecosystem as they play a key role in maintaining the health of the ecosystem. By excreting the inorganic nitrogen and phosphorus, sea cucumbers enhance the productivity of benthic animals —those living on the ocean floor. One of the by-products of the sea cucumber's digestion of sand is calcium carbonate, a key component of coral reef. To survive, coral reefs must accumulate calcium carbonate, and thus sea cucumbers play a vital role in their preservation. Sea cucumbers also maintain the transparency of seawater by eating sewage. Feeding and excretion by sea cucumbers also increase alkalinity, which counteracts ocean acidification. Illegal harvesting and overexploitation of these animals leads to poorer sediment health, reduced nutrient recycling and impacting biodiversity. In India, sea cucumber is treated as an endangered species and is listed under Schedule 1 of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.

600 kgs of smuggled sea cucumber worth $4 million seized in India’s southern Tamil Nadu coast 

In an unfortunate turn of events, Chinnakannu, a visually challenged septuagenarian in Tamil Nadu recently realized that his life savings held in cash were not even worth the paper it was printed on.

Living off the alms offered by people, the destitute senior citizen over several years managed to save INR 65,000 and had kept the savings in a place he considered safe.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-couple-wade-through-floodwater-in-improvised-vessel-to-tie-the-knot-braving-all-elements-421793" hreflang="en">Indian couple wade through floodwater in ‘improvised vessel’ to tie the knot, braving all elements</a>

However, owing to illness and other factors, he, unfortunately, had forgotten all about his cash savings.

Only recently did the elderly person come to know of demonetization, which was announced on November 8th&nbsp;2016, by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Chinnakannu, a Visually-challenged septuagenarian, seen at Krishnagiri, Collector Office, with a wad of demonetized Rs.1000&amp;500 notes amounting to Rs.65K 
 
He hopes to get it converted to usable cash.. he had kept the money safely &amp; had forgotten about it for many yrs.. <a href="https://t.co/FOiarsh7N2">pic.twitter.com/FOiarsh7N2</a>
— Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp/status/1450433158743093255?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Apparently, a friend of his told him that the 'old notes' were useless.

It was on Monday that the senior citizen approached the Krishnagiri district collector, with the help of a cobbler.

The senior citizen has petitioned the collector to help him out in converting the demonetized currency (consisting of Rs1000 and 500 notes) into legal tender.&nbsp;

The issue came to light after pictures and videos of the visually challenged person holding a wad of invalid currency notes were widely shared on social media.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-six-members-of-a-family-spanning-across-three-generations-killed-in-kerala-floods-421912" hreflang="en">All six members of a family, spanning across three generations killed in Kerala floods</a>

In the video, Chinnakannu says that he found the cash only on Sunday and realized about the notes being illegal tender and that he didn’t know about this earlier. He added that he was in the Collector office to ensure that this currency can be converted into usable currency (legal tender).&nbsp;

In an unfortunate turn of events, Chinnakannu, a visually challenged septuagenarian in Tamil Nadu recently realized that his life savings held in cash were not even worth the paper it was printed on.

In an unfortunate turn of events, Chinnakannu, a visually challenged septuagenarian in Tamil Nadu recently realized that his life savings held in cash were not even worth the paper it was printed on. Living off the alms offered by people, the destitute senior citizen over several years managed to save INR 65,000 and had kept the savings in a place he considered safe. Also read | Indian couple wade through floodwater in ‘improvised vessel’ to tie the knot, braving all elements However, owing to illness and other factors, he, unfortunately, had forgotten all about his cash savings. Only recently did the elderly person come to know of demonetization, which was announced on November 8th 2016, by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Chinnakannu, a Visually-challenged septuagenarian, seen at Krishnagiri, Collector Office, with a wad of demonetized Rs.1000&500 notes amounting to Rs.65K He hopes to get it converted to usable cash.. he had kept the money safely & had forgotten about it for many yrs.. pic.twitter.com/FOiarsh7N2 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) October 19, 2021 × Apparently, a friend of his told him that the 'old notes' were useless. It was on Monday that the senior citizen approached the Krishnagiri district collector, with the help of a cobbler. The senior citizen has petitioned the collector to help him out in converting the demonetized currency (consisting of Rs1000 and 500 notes) into legal tender. The issue came to light after pictures and videos of the visually challenged person holding a wad of invalid currency notes were widely shared on social media. Also read | All six members of a family, spanning across three generations killed in Kerala floods In the video, Chinnakannu says that he found the cash only on Sunday and realized about the notes being illegal tender and that he didn’t know about this earlier. He added that he was in the Collector office to ensure that this currency can be converted into usable currency (legal tender).

'Must convert it to usable cash', visually challenged senior approaches collector with 65k in demonetised cash

India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) files a charge sheet against a Tamil Nadu resident.&nbsp;

According to the NIA, they have filed a charge sheet against Saravana Kumar, alias Abdullah, of Madurai, Tamil Nadu. He is being booked under multiple sections including Sedition, Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) etc.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ex-ltte-man-arrested-for-smuggling-ak-47s-ammo-300kg-heroin-from-pakistan-to-sri-lanka-419244" hreflang="en">Ex-LTTE man arrested for smuggling AK-47s, ammo, 300kg heroin from Pakistan to Sri Lanka</a>

The charges against him have been filed for supporting, furthering ISIS ideology and uploading incendiary posts on Facebook. An NIA special court in Chennai has filed cases under sections 124A and 505(1)(b) of IPC and section 13(1)(b), 38 and 39 of UAPA.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
NIA files chargesheet in ISIS- Madurai Hizb-ut-Tahrir Module case <a href="https://t.co/tGZnFB8Czb">pic.twitter.com/tGZnFB8Czb</a>
— NIA India (@NIA_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/NIA_India/status/1445731666211659786?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The case against this Madurai-based individual was registered at the Theppakulam Police Station in Madurai City, on April 10th of this year. Following this, a probe was conducted by the NIA, which revealed the grave nature of the accused's intentions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-indian-forest-officials-attempted-to-reunite-a-baby-elephant-that-was-separated-from-its-herd-419236" hreflang="en">How Indian Forest officials attempted to reunite a baby elephant that was separated from its herd</a>

“Abdullah was uploading posts on his Facebook account to instigate people to establish Khilafah (an institution governing a territory under Islamic rule) and threaten the unity, security and sovereignty of India. He was also seeking cooperation from other countries to set up an Army to establish an Islamic State in Tamil Nadu through Jihad.” the premier investigation agency said.

An investigation by the NIA has revealed that Abdullah, who went by the alias Saravana Kumar is a highly radicalized Hizb Ut Tahir (HuT) member and was espousing the fundamentalist ideology of ISIS.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-icg-device-helps-save-nine-sailors-stranded-at-sea-between-india-and-the-maldives-419225" hreflang="en">ISRO-ICG device helps save nine sailors stranded at sea between India and the Maldives</a>

Notably, the HuT is banned in many countries.&nbsp;

The accused had knowingly and willingly associated himself with ISIS recruiters with an intention to propagate and support ISIS activities, said NIA. The investigation, in this case, is still underway, they added.

India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) files a charge sheet against a Tamil Nadu resident. According to the NIA, they have filed a charge sheet against Saravana Kumar, alias Abdullah, of Madurai, Tamil Nadu.

India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) files a charge sheet against a Tamil Nadu resident. According to the NIA, they have filed a charge sheet against Saravana Kumar, alias Abdullah, of Madurai, Tamil Nadu. He is being booked under multiple sections including Sedition, Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) etc. Also read | Ex-LTTE man arrested for smuggling AK-47s, ammo, 300kg heroin from Pakistan to Sri Lanka The charges against him have been filed for supporting, furthering ISIS ideology and uploading incendiary posts on Facebook. An NIA special court in Chennai has filed cases under sections 124A and 505(1)(b) of IPC and section 13(1)(b), 38 and 39 of UAPA. NIA files chargesheet in ISIS- Madurai Hizb-ut-Tahrir Module case pic.twitter.com/tGZnFB8Czb — NIA India (@NIA_India) October 6, 2021 × The case against this Madurai-based individual was registered at the Theppakulam Police Station in Madurai City, on April 10th of this year. Following this, a probe was conducted by the NIA, which revealed the grave nature of the accused's intentions. Also read | How Indian Forest officials attempted to reunite a baby elephant that was separated from its herd “Abdullah was uploading posts on his Facebook account to instigate people to establish Khilafah (an institution governing a territory under Islamic rule) and threaten the unity, security and sovereignty of India. He was also seeking cooperation from other countries to set up an Army to establish an Islamic State in Tamil Nadu through Jihad.” the premier investigation agency said. An investigation by the NIA has revealed that Abdullah, who went by the alias Saravana Kumar is a highly radicalized Hizb Ut Tahir (HuT) member and was espousing the fundamentalist ideology of ISIS. Also read | ISRO-ICG device helps save nine sailors stranded at sea between India and the Maldives Notably, the HuT is banned in many countries. The accused had knowingly and willingly associated himself with ISIS recruiters with an intention to propagate and support ISIS activities, said NIA. The investigation, in this case, is still underway, they added.

NIA files charge sheet against radical who wanted to establish Islamic State in Tamil Nadu

The topmost forest department official in the Indian State of Tamil Nadu has issued a hunting order for a wild tiger that is said to have caused the deaths of two people and livestock in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR). 
 
Officials and a multi-disciplinary team of experts are preparing to capture the adult male tiger, being referred to as ‘MDT 23’, on Saturday. It is notable that this ‘Hunting Order’ is in adherence to Section 11(1)(a) of India’s Wildlife Protection Act 1972.&nbsp;

According to the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, the said tiger has been preying on livestock in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve and adjoining areas, since July this year. This predator is also said to have killed an individual on September 24, following which efforts were underway to track, tranquillize and capture it. 
 
However, the capture operation has not been successful thus far, owing to the terrain, inclement weather and disturbances by the local population. The tiger continued to prey on livestock and also killed another person on Friday.&nbsp;It is notable that the tiger did not consume the humans that it happened to kill.&nbsp;

Owing to the danger that this tiger poses to human lives, the demands of the locals and the reports of field officials, Dr Shekhar Kumar Niraj, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden issued the ‘Hunting Order’.

The order empowers officials of MTR to hunt the tiger ‘MDT 23’ under Section 11(1) (a) of the Wildlife Protection Act, in strict adherence to the guidelines issued by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).

This entire operation, which is being conducted with assistance from Kerala Forest teams, Special Task Force, will be photographed, videographed and documented, as per the order.&nbsp;

"This is not a man-eater tiger. The unfortunate instances of people getting killed were because they ignored the warnings and ventured into the forests where the tiger was roaming. What has been issued is not a shooting order. Our first priority is to trap and capture the tiger. Shooting (if at all) will be the last resort, " Dr. Niraj told WION.

When asked about the next steps after capture, he stated that the tiger would be subjected to a medical examination by expert veterinarians, after which a decision on moving it to a zoo or other similar options would be considered.

It is pertinent to note that adult male tigers hunting livestock and other captive prey are very rare, given that they have adequate wild prey in the vast expanse of the ecologically-rich Nilgiri Biosphere reserve, where MTR is situated. Officials are also looking forward to finding out the reason behind this, once the capture is successful.&nbsp;

The topmost forest department official in the Indian State of Tamil Nadu has issued a hunting order for a wild tiger that is said to have caused the deaths of two people and livestock in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR).

The topmost forest department official in the Indian State of Tamil Nadu has issued a hunting order for a wild tiger that is said to have caused the deaths of two people and livestock in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR). Officials and a multi-disciplinary team of experts are preparing to capture the adult male tiger, being referred to as ‘MDT 23’, on Saturday. It is notable that this ‘Hunting Order’ is in adherence to Section 11(1)(a) of India’s Wildlife Protection Act 1972. According to the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, the said tiger has been preying on livestock in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve and adjoining areas, since July this year. This predator is also said to have killed an individual on September 24, following which efforts were underway to track, tranquillize and capture it. However, the capture operation has not been successful thus far, owing to the terrain, inclement weather and disturbances by the local population. The tiger continued to prey on livestock and also killed another person on Friday. It is notable that the tiger did not consume the humans that it happened to kill. Owing to the danger that this tiger poses to human lives, the demands of the locals and the reports of field officials, Dr Shekhar Kumar Niraj, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden issued the ‘Hunting Order’. The order empowers officials of MTR to hunt the tiger ‘MDT 23’ under Section 11(1) (a) of the Wildlife Protection Act, in strict adherence to the guidelines issued by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA). This entire operation, which is being conducted with assistance from Kerala Forest teams, Special Task Force, will be photographed, videographed and documented, as per the order. "This is not a man-eater tiger. The unfortunate instances of people getting killed were because they ignored the warnings and ventured into the forests where the tiger was roaming. What has been issued is not a shooting order. Our first priority is to trap and capture the tiger. Shooting (if at all) will be the last resort, " Dr. Niraj told WION. When asked about the next steps after capture, he stated that the tiger would be subjected to a medical examination by expert veterinarians, after which a decision on moving it to a zoo or other similar options would be considered. It is pertinent to note that adult male tigers hunting livestock and other captive prey are very rare, given that they have adequate wild prey in the vast expanse of the ecologically-rich Nilgiri Biosphere reserve, where MTR is situated. Officials are also looking forward to finding out the reason behind this, once the capture is successful.

Hunting order issued for a wild tiger in India; officials say capturing it top priority

According to the&nbsp;defence&nbsp;establishment, the area falling under&nbsp;three&nbsp;km radius from the perimeter of naval installations in Tamil Nadu has been designated as a&nbsp;'No Fly Zone'. This means that individuals/civil agencies are prohibited from flying non-conventional aerial objects,&nbsp;such as drones or unmanned aerial&nbsp;vehicles&nbsp;(UAVs) without any prior permission.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a stern warning, it has been stated that “The Indian Navy will destroy or confiscate any non-conventional aerial object including drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) found flying without proper approval.&nbsp; Further, the operator found violating these orders will be charged under the provisions of Indian Penal Code.”&nbsp;

It was added that the approval for using drones by any operator/government agency is governed by the guidelines issued by Ministry of Home&nbsp;Affairs&nbsp;(MHA). In case of an approved, scheduled flying operation, the approval from Director General Civil Aviation (DGCA) is to be obtained through Digi Sky Website, and a copy of the approval letter is to be submitted to Headquarter Tamil Nadu &amp; Puducherry Naval Area/ Staff Officer (Security) and concerned Naval Station at least a week prior to the flying operation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In July, the areas falling within&nbsp;three&nbsp;km radius of the perimeter of Indian Naval Air Station INS&nbsp;Rajali&nbsp;in&nbsp;Arakkonam, Tamil Nadu were designated as&nbsp;'No Fly&nbsp;Zone'A&nbsp;similar warning regarding the confiscation and destruction of the UAV/drone and legal action against the violators was&nbsp;emphasised&nbsp;upon, back then.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It is understood that this warning gains significance, given the recent terror attacks on&nbsp;defence&nbsp;facilities in Jammu and Kashmir, using explosive laden drones. These mini flying machines pose a significant threat as they can be launched from anywhere, in a short notice and can cause damage to life and property.&nbsp;

According to the defence establishment, the area falling under three km radius from the perimeter of naval installations in Tamil Nadu has been designated as a 'No Fly Zone'.

According to the defence establishment, the area falling under three km radius from the perimeter of naval installations in Tamil Nadu has been designated as a 'No Fly Zone'. This means that individuals/civil agencies are prohibited from flying non-conventional aerial objects, such as drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) without any prior permission. In a stern warning, it has been stated that “The Indian Navy will destroy or confiscate any non-conventional aerial object including drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) found flying without proper approval. Further, the operator found violating these orders will be charged under the provisions of Indian Penal Code.” It was added that the approval for using drones by any operator/government agency is governed by the guidelines issued by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). In case of an approved, scheduled flying operation, the approval from Director General Civil Aviation (DGCA) is to be obtained through Digi Sky Website, and a copy of the approval letter is to be submitted to Headquarter Tamil Nadu & Puducherry Naval Area/ Staff Officer (Security) and concerned Naval Station at least a week prior to the flying operation. In July, the areas falling within three km radius of the perimeter of Indian Naval Air Station INS Rajali in Arakkonam, Tamil Nadu were designated as 'No Fly Zone'A similar warning regarding the confiscation and destruction of the UAV/drone and legal action against the violators was emphasised upon, back then. It is understood that this warning gains significance, given the recent terror attacks on defence facilities in Jammu and Kashmir, using explosive laden drones. These mini flying machines pose a significant threat as they can be launched from anywhere, in a short notice and can cause damage to life and property.

3 km area surrounding naval installations turns 'No Fly Zone' in Tamil Nadu  

With daily COVID-19 cases grazing the 2,000 mark over the past few days and the fear of a third wave, the Tamil Nadu government has announced a new set of restrictions.

All places of worship will be shut on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, in order to prevent crowding. Earlier, the government had also permitted the District Administration or Civic Body or Police to close all marketplaces that witness huge crowds.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/white-fungus-abscess-found-in-the-brain-of-a-covid-recovered-patient-403525" hreflang="en">White fungus abscess found in the brain of a COVID-recovered patient</a>

Claiming that the health experts had advised so, the government says it plans to resume physical classes for students of classes 9 to 12, from September 1.

The government intends to do so with 50 per cent occupancy in classrooms and in adherence to COVID-19 norms and they add that it would be decided based on the opinions of all concerned stakeholders. The government also emphasised that online learning has caused a huge disparity as many students couldn’t attend online classes. However, those below the age of 18 (school students) are not eligible for vaccination and suitable vaccines aren’t made available for them.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/johnson-johnson-applies-for-vaccine-authorisation-in-india-403397" hreflang="en">Johnson &amp; Johnson applies for vaccine authorisation in India</a>

Regarding medical and nursing colleges, the government said that they would be permitted to re-open from August 16, adding that the students and faculty had been vaccinated under the frontline workers' quota.

Owing to the third wave fears and rising cases in Kerala, Tamil Nadu has made a two-shot vaccination certificate or RT-PCR mandatory for those entering from Kerala from August 05.

With daily COVID-19 cases grazing the 2,000 mark over the past few days and the fear of a third wave, the Tamil Nadu government has announced a new set of restrictions.

With daily COVID-19 cases grazing the 2,000 mark over the past few days and the fear of a third wave, the Tamil Nadu government has announced a new set of restrictions. All places of worship will be shut on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, in order to prevent crowding. Earlier, the government had also permitted the District Administration or Civic Body or Police to close all marketplaces that witness huge crowds. Also read | White fungus abscess found in the brain of a COVID-recovered patient Claiming that the health experts had advised so, the government says it plans to resume physical classes for students of classes 9 to 12, from September 1. The government intends to do so with 50 per cent occupancy in classrooms and in adherence to COVID-19 norms and they add that it would be decided based on the opinions of all concerned stakeholders. The government also emphasised that online learning has caused a huge disparity as many students couldn’t attend online classes. However, those below the age of 18 (school students) are not eligible for vaccination and suitable vaccines aren’t made available for them. Also read | Johnson & Johnson applies for vaccine authorisation in India Regarding medical and nursing colleges, the government said that they would be permitted to re-open from August 16, adding that the students and faculty had been vaccinated under the frontline workers' quota. Owing to the third wave fears and rising cases in Kerala, Tamil Nadu has made a two-shot vaccination certificate or RT-PCR mandatory for those entering from Kerala from August 05.

Tamil Nadu: Despite third wave risk, government plans to open schools

In a significant development, ‘Rivaldo’, a wild tusker that had been under captive treatment at a camp in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, was released into the jungle during the wee hours of Monday. Nearly three months ago, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department captured the elephant, as it kept venturing into human habitations in search of food. It was suspected that the elephant had an injury, which prevented it from feeding in the wild.&nbsp;

The Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, located in the ecologically sensitive Nilgiris district in Tamil Nadu, is at the tri-junction of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Animals such as tigers, leopards, elephants, Indian Gaur (bison), and sloth bears are often sighted at the reserve. 
 
Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tusker-rivaldo-back-in-natural-habitat-after-treatment-in-captivity-402467/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On being captured, Rivaldo was put into a ‘kraal’ (a wooden log enclosure specially made for treating elephants). Generally, elephants that are put into a kraal are trained and domesticated for use as semi-wild elephants. They are either placed in forest department-run camps -as safari elephants or as Kumki elephants (trained elephants used to tame/control other elephants). Being put in a Kraal has often meant the end of a wild elephant’s natural way of life. 
 
<img alt="Wild tusker" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0cf815b2-50e3-4efe-9b48-1fa1150e9cc6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/elephant1.jpg" />

In this case, based on input from multiple committees and expert opinion, it was decided to rehabilitate the tusker into a suitable location in the wild. Based on the discussions and plans drawn up over the last 25 days, a team from the Forest Department transferred the elephant from the kraal to a customised vehicle. The operation, which began at 3 am on Monday, involved moving the truck-borne elephant slowly to an ideal location (a journey of nearly 35kms), with adequate safety measures in place.&nbsp;

According to Supriya Sahu, IAS, Principal Secretary, Environment and Forests, TN, the radio-collared tusker was released into the wild at around 9:30 am. "We have used a German-made radio collar that is linked with satellites to provide hourly location updates on the elephant. Our monitoring centre gets the signal every hour and we get to know how far he has travelled and the exact location. This helps ensure the tuskers' safety and tracks their movement in the wild, " she added.&nbsp;

Officials had to follow multiple procedures and protocols to ensure that the captive wild tusker was suitably and comfortably rehabilitated. It began with a crucial medical examination to determine whether the tusker required further treatment or whether it had to be held captive permanently or whether it could be released back into its natural habitat.&nbsp;

"An 8-member expert committee formed for this purpose told us that the elephant was fine, no further treatment was required. It was also added that there was no reason to keep it in a camp. We then formed multiple committees to work on the scientific methods of rehabilitation, such as -treatment, collaring, tracking, etc." said Tamil Nadu Chief Wildlife Warden Dr Shekhar Kumar Niraj, IFS. He added that it was a sensitive operation involving 100 staffers of the department, hence necessitating that it be kept away from public glare.

Referring to the possibility of similar rehabilitation efforts for other captive elephants, Mrs Supriya Sahu said that the department would make its best efforts to get captive animals back to the wild, as they can not be forced to live in an artificial setting. "In Karnataka, they rehabilitated a wild elephant that had been in captivity for a very long time. Likewise, we will analyse the parameters and see what is possible. We are open to the idea, "she said, expressing confidence.

She assured meticulous, scientific decision-making that would keep animal welfare the utmost priority. She also revealed that man-animal conflict had come to an all-time low during the COVID-19 lockdowns, as people were confined to their homes. Regarding the two-pronged approach to wildlife management, she said that scaling-up of rescue-treatment-rehab facilities for animals was underway, besides the awareness drives for the local populace.

In a significant development, ‘Rivaldo’, a wild tusker that had been under captive treatment at a camp in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, was released into the jungle during the wee hours of Monday.

In a significant development, ‘Rivaldo’, a wild tusker that had been under captive treatment at a camp in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, was released into the jungle during the wee hours of Monday. Nearly three months ago, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department captured the elephant, as it kept venturing into human habitations in search of food. It was suspected that the elephant had an injury, which prevented it from feeding in the wild. The Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, located in the ecologically sensitive Nilgiris district in Tamil Nadu, is at the tri-junction of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Animals such as tigers, leopards, elephants, Indian Gaur (bison), and sloth bears are often sighted at the reserve. Watch: On being captured, Rivaldo was put into a ‘kraal’ (a wooden log enclosure specially made for treating elephants). Generally, elephants that are put into a kraal are trained and domesticated for use as semi-wild elephants. They are either placed in forest department-run camps -as safari elephants or as Kumki elephants (trained elephants used to tame/control other elephants). Being put in a Kraal has often meant the end of a wild elephant’s natural way of life. In this case, based on input from multiple committees and expert opinion, it was decided to rehabilitate the tusker into a suitable location in the wild. Based on the discussions and plans drawn up over the last 25 days, a team from the Forest Department transferred the elephant from the kraal to a customised vehicle. The operation, which began at 3 am on Monday, involved moving the truck-borne elephant slowly to an ideal location (a journey of nearly 35kms), with adequate safety measures in place. According to Supriya Sahu, IAS, Principal Secretary, Environment and Forests, TN, the radio-collared tusker was released into the wild at around 9:30 am. "We have used a German-made radio collar that is linked with satellites to provide hourly location updates on the elephant. Our monitoring centre gets the signal every hour and we get to know how far he has travelled and the exact location. This helps ensure the tuskers' safety and tracks their movement in the wild, " she added. Officials had to follow multiple procedures and protocols to ensure that the captive wild tusker was suitably and comfortably rehabilitated. It began with a crucial medical examination to determine whether the tusker required further treatment or whether it had to be held captive permanently or whether it could be released back into its natural habitat. "An 8-member expert committee formed for this purpose told us that the elephant was fine, no further treatment was required. It was also added that there was no reason to keep it in a camp. We then formed multiple committees to work on the scientific methods of rehabilitation, such as -treatment, collaring, tracking, etc." said Tamil Nadu Chief Wildlife Warden Dr Shekhar Kumar Niraj, IFS. He added that it was a sensitive operation involving 100 staffers of the department, hence necessitating that it be kept away from public glare. Referring to the possibility of similar rehabilitation efforts for other captive elephants, Mrs Supriya Sahu said that the department would make its best efforts to get captive animals back to the wild, as they can not be forced to live in an artificial setting. "In Karnataka, they rehabilitated a wild elephant that had been in captivity for a very long time. Likewise, we will analyse the parameters and see what is possible. We are open to the idea, "she said, expressing confidence. She assured meticulous, scientific decision-making that would keep animal welfare the utmost priority. She also revealed that man-animal conflict had come to an all-time low during the COVID-19 lockdowns, as people were confined to their homes. Regarding the two-pronged approach to wildlife management, she said that scaling-up of rescue-treatment-rehab facilities for animals was underway, besides the awareness drives for the local populace.

Wild tusker 'Rivaldo', captured for treatment, returns to the forest in Tamil Nadu's Mudumalai

Mucormycosis, also known as black fungus, has caused thirty to lose vision in one eye&nbsp;in a Tamil Nadu government hospital, says a top official of the hospital said on Sunday.

All those admitted had undergone endoscopy with 110 undergoing visualisation surgery, the hospital Dean Dr N Nirmala said in a release.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-black-fungus-or-mucormycosis-symptoms-and-treatment-384366">What is 'Black Fungus' or 'Mucormycosis'?: Symptoms and treatment</a>

But 30 patients with severe infection had lost their sight in one eye, she said, adding that those who had come at an early stage were totally cured of the disease.

The Health Department has created awareness to not neglect any problem in the nostrils or phlegm with blood or swelling in the eyes and face, red eyes and also toothache.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-black-fungus-declared-an-epidemic-in-india-386622/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

People with such health issues should not delay going to the doctor or a hospital, the Dean said.

Mucormycosis, also known as black fungus, has caused thirty to lose vision in one eye in a Tamil Nadu government hospital, says a top official of the hospital said on Sunday.

Mucormycosis, also known as black fungus, has caused thirty to lose vision in one eye in a Tamil Nadu government hospital, says a top official of the hospital said on Sunday. All those admitted had undergone endoscopy with 110 undergoing visualisation surgery, the hospital Dean Dr N Nirmala said in a release. Also read | What is 'Black Fungus' or 'Mucormycosis'?: Symptoms and treatment But 30 patients with severe infection had lost their sight in one eye, she said, adding that those who had come at an early stage were totally cured of the disease. The Health Department has created awareness to not neglect any problem in the nostrils or phlegm with blood or swelling in the eyes and face, red eyes and also toothache. People with such health issues should not delay going to the doctor or a hospital, the Dean said.

Tamil Nadu: 30 people lose vision in one eye due to black fungus

The first bench of the Madras High Court has observed that without the nod of the Supreme Court, the Tamil Nadu government cannot form a committee to study the impact of NEET on socially backward students.

Madras High Court asked the state government to file a reply within a week, regarding a petition moved by the Tamil Nadu BJP, challenging the state government constituted AK Rajan committee.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/neet-fails-all-india-topper-in-exams-nta-rechecks-papers-finds-blunder-336611">NEET 'fails' all India topper in exams; NTA rechecks papers, finds blunder</a>

The plea filed by BJP State General Secretary Karu Nagarajan called the nine-member AK Rajan committee unconstitutional, illegal, unfair and unreasonable. Nagarajan's plea wanted the court to restrain the committee from proceeding further. It added that as per the 2017 Supreme Court ruling, the Tamil Nadu government was required to implement the NEET exam for medical entrance.

During the hearing of this plea, the court questioned the Tamil Nadu government over whether it had sought or obtained the permission of the Supreme Court in this matter, as forming such a committee would be against the Supreme Court’s orders.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-lockdown-extended-till-july-5-more-relaxations-granted-for-11-hotspot-districts-393970" hreflang="en">Tamil Nadu lockdown extended till July 5; more relaxations granted for 11 hotspot districts</a>

Appearing on behalf of the state government, Advocate General Shanmugasundaram submitted that the committee formation was a policy decision taken by the government. He added that it was also backed by the DMK manifesto and the people's demand. Responding to this, the first bench of Justices Sanjib Banerjee and Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy said, "May be, but if it is contrary to the Supreme Court order, then it cannot be permitted".&nbsp;

It was the ruling DMK’s election promise to abolish NEET, if voted to power. DMK President MK Stalin had said that a law would be passed in the State Assembly to abolish NEET, following which the Indian President's assent would be sought.

The case will be heard next on July 05.

The first bench of the Madras High Court has observed that without the nod of the Supreme Court, the Tamil Nadu government cannot form a committee to study the impact of NEET on socially backward students.

The first bench of the Madras High Court has observed that without the nod of the Supreme Court, the Tamil Nadu government cannot form a committee to study the impact of NEET on socially backward students. Madras High Court asked the state government to file a reply within a week, regarding a petition moved by the Tamil Nadu BJP, challenging the state government constituted AK Rajan committee. Also read | NEET 'fails' all India topper in exams; NTA rechecks papers, finds blunder The plea filed by BJP State General Secretary Karu Nagarajan called the nine-member AK Rajan committee unconstitutional, illegal, unfair and unreasonable. Nagarajan's plea wanted the court to restrain the committee from proceeding further. It added that as per the 2017 Supreme Court ruling, the Tamil Nadu government was required to implement the NEET exam for medical entrance. During the hearing of this plea, the court questioned the Tamil Nadu government over whether it had sought or obtained the permission of the Supreme Court in this matter, as forming such a committee would be against the Supreme Court’s orders. Also read | Tamil Nadu lockdown extended till July 5; more relaxations granted for 11 hotspot districts Appearing on behalf of the state government, Advocate General Shanmugasundaram submitted that the committee formation was a policy decision taken by the government. He added that it was also backed by the DMK manifesto and the people's demand. Responding to this, the first bench of Justices Sanjib Banerjee and Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy said, "May be, but if it is contrary to the Supreme Court order, then it cannot be permitted". It was the ruling DMK’s election promise to abolish NEET, if voted to power. DMK President MK Stalin had said that a law would be passed in the State Assembly to abolish NEET, following which the Indian President's assent would be sought. The case will be heard next on July 05.

Madras HC orders TN govt to respond on plea against AK Rajan Committee to study NEET impact

With daily <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19 cases</a> hovering around the 6,000 mark, while showing a decreasing trend, the Tamil Nadu government has extended the existing lockdown till July 5. However, various new relaxations have been provided for all districts, in view of the gradually improving situation.

The ongoing lockdown was to come to an end at 6 am on June 28, Monday. As an abundant precaution, it must be noted that there are nine cases of the new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-19-all-you-need-to-know-about-delta-plus-variant-393450">Delta Plus variant</a> of COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Based on Covid caseloads, the government has grouped the districts into hotspots, moderate and low incidence districts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/universal-coronavirus-vaccine-scientists-make-unique-discovery-that-may-help-prevent-future-pandemics-393371">New universal coronavirus vaccine may help prevent future pandemics</a>

As per the latest guidelines, the working hours of shops and establishments in the 11 hotspot districts have been increased till 7 pm. These hotspot districts are Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Karur, Namakkal, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam and Mayiladuthurai.&nbsp;

In Chennai and adjoining three districts of Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu and Tiruvallur where there are less than 400 daily cases, the most number of relaxations have been provided. Private companies can function with 100 per cent&nbsp;strength; shopping malls can open, but only take-away will be permitted in food courts; large format stores selling clothes, jewellery can operate without air conditioning and allow 50 per cent&nbsp;capacity. Temples and other places of worship will also be allowed to function. Sports training facilities/camps can function and open-air sports events can be held without spectators.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/delta-is-the-fastest-covid-19-variant-and-will-pick-off-the-most-vulnerable-who-393278" hreflang="en">Delta is the fastest COVID-19 variant and will pick off the most vulnerable: WHO</a>

In the remaining 23 districts, shops and establishments can be open till 7 pm and additional permission has been granted to open stores selling utensils, fancy items, photo/video studios, Xerox shops and tailoring shops etc.

Walkers will be permitted in all beaches across the state from 5 to 9 am, matchbox-making units can function with 100 per cent&nbsp;strength. Those in non-hotspot districts can travel for weddings without e-registration. However, those traveling for weddings between hotspot districts and those traveling from other moderate districts to hotspot districts will have to e-register. Only 50 members will be allowed to take part in a wedding event.&nbsp;

Travel to tourists destinations such as Nilgiris, Kodaikanal, Yercaud, Kuttraalam will be permitted only for Emergency purposes, based on e-passes obtained from respective district authorities.&nbsp;

With daily COVID-19 cases hovering around the 6,000 mark, while showing a decreasing trend, the Tamil Nadu government has extended the existing lockdown till July 5.

With daily COVID-19 cases hovering around the 6,000 mark, while showing a decreasing trend, the Tamil Nadu government has extended the existing lockdown till July 5. However, various new relaxations have been provided for all districts, in view of the gradually improving situation. The ongoing lockdown was to come to an end at 6 am on June 28, Monday. As an abundant precaution, it must be noted that there are nine cases of the new Delta Plus variant of COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu. Based on Covid caseloads, the government has grouped the districts into hotspots, moderate and low incidence districts. Also read | New universal coronavirus vaccine may help prevent future pandemics As per the latest guidelines, the working hours of shops and establishments in the 11 hotspot districts have been increased till 7 pm. These hotspot districts are Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Tiruppur, Erode, Salem, Karur, Namakkal, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam and Mayiladuthurai. In Chennai and adjoining three districts of Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu and Tiruvallur where there are less than 400 daily cases, the most number of relaxations have been provided. Private companies can function with 100 per cent strength; shopping malls can open, but only take-away will be permitted in food courts; large format stores selling clothes, jewellery can operate without air conditioning and allow 50 per cent capacity. Temples and other places of worship will also be allowed to function. Sports training facilities/camps can function and open-air sports events can be held without spectators. Also read | Delta is the fastest COVID-19 variant and will pick off the most vulnerable: WHO In the remaining 23 districts, shops and establishments can be open till 7 pm and additional permission has been granted to open stores selling utensils, fancy items, photo/video studios, Xerox shops and tailoring shops etc. Walkers will be permitted in all beaches across the state from 5 to 9 am, matchbox-making units can function with 100 per cent strength. Those in non-hotspot districts can travel for weddings without e-registration. However, those traveling for weddings between hotspot districts and those traveling from other moderate districts to hotspot districts will have to e-register. Only 50 members will be allowed to take part in a wedding event. Travel to tourists destinations such as Nilgiris, Kodaikanal, Yercaud, Kuttraalam will be permitted only for Emergency purposes, based on e-passes obtained from respective district authorities.

Tamil Nadu lockdown extended till July 5; more relaxations granted for 11 hotspot districts

Netizens are having a field day, thanks to Tamil Nadu Minister Senthil Balaji’s comments on squirrels running on overhead power lines and causing disruptions in service.

Clips of the comments made by the DMK’s Karur MLA and Electrictiy Minister have been going viral on social media and instant messaging platforms. The Tamil equivalent of "Squirrels are the reason" has been an Indian-level Twitter trend, with over 12,000 tweets on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anybody-can-do-yoga-specially-abled-persons-join-the-international-yoga-day-movement-393198" hreflang="en">Anybody can do yoga: Specially abled persons join the International Yoga Day movement</a>

There have been reports of increased power cuts across the state since the new DMK regime came to power. Addressing the media regarding this issue, the minister replied that when tree branches come in contact with power lines, squirrels running on them, lead to two wires coming into contact, thus, causing power outages.&nbsp;

Later, speaking at the assembly, the minister had said that the previous AIADMK government had not carried out maintenance work for Electricity Board connections. He added that there would be no power cuts after the maintenance works were carried out.

However, the AIADMK has maintained that Tamil Nadu was a power surplus state during its rule and the party&nbsp;handled peak power demand efficiently and that there were hardly any power cuts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chennai-organs-of-27-yr-old-accident-victim-flown-by-chopper-to-give-life-to-two-patients-393016" hreflang="en">Chennai: Organs of 27-yr old accident victim flown by chopper, to give life to two patients</a>

Opposition politicians and netizens have been trolling the ruling party for the minister’s comments and asking if squirrels ran underground and whether the population of squirrels had increased after the new government took over. Frequent power cuts were among the taunts that the AIADMK-BJP combine had used against the DMK during the election campaign.&nbsp;

Many are comparing the minister's comments to an instance where an AIADMK Minister Sellur Raju attempted to cover a dam with thermocol sheets to prevent the evaporation of water, during the previous regime. While many sheets were placed in the water, they were later blown ashore, thanks to the strong winds in the open area.

In several Western countries, there are instances of squirrels causing power disruptions, but such reasons are unheard of in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

Netizens are having a field day, thanks to Tamil Nadu Minister Senthil Balaji’s comments on squirrels running on overhead power lines and causing disruptions in service.

Netizens are having a field day, thanks to Tamil Nadu Minister Senthil Balaji’s comments on squirrels running on overhead power lines and causing disruptions in service. Clips of the comments made by the DMK’s Karur MLA and Electrictiy Minister have been going viral on social media and instant messaging platforms. The Tamil equivalent of "Squirrels are the reason" has been an Indian-level Twitter trend, with over 12,000 tweets on Wednesday. Also read | Anybody can do yoga: Specially abled persons join the International Yoga Day movement There have been reports of increased power cuts across the state since the new DMK regime came to power. Addressing the media regarding this issue, the minister replied that when tree branches come in contact with power lines, squirrels running on them, lead to two wires coming into contact, thus, causing power outages. Later, speaking at the assembly, the minister had said that the previous AIADMK government had not carried out maintenance work for Electricity Board connections. He added that there would be no power cuts after the maintenance works were carried out. However, the AIADMK has maintained that Tamil Nadu was a power surplus state during its rule and the party handled peak power demand efficiently and that there were hardly any power cuts. Also read | Chennai: Organs of 27-yr old accident victim flown by chopper, to give life to two patients Opposition politicians and netizens have been trolling the ruling party for the minister’s comments and asking if squirrels ran underground and whether the population of squirrels had increased after the new government took over. Frequent power cuts were among the taunts that the AIADMK-BJP combine had used against the DMK during the election campaign. Many are comparing the minister's comments to an instance where an AIADMK Minister Sellur Raju attempted to cover a dam with thermocol sheets to prevent the evaporation of water, during the previous regime. While many sheets were placed in the water, they were later blown ashore, thanks to the strong winds in the open area. In several Western countries, there are instances of squirrels causing power disruptions, but such reasons are unheard of in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

Twitter trends 'squirrels' after TN minister blamed them for causing power outages

A police officer in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu has been arrested for&nbsp;brutality, after a video of the incident in&nbsp;Salem District has gone viral.

In the video, Periyasamy&nbsp;is seen beating a man despite cries and pleas from the victim’s friends. This incident took place at the Pappinaickaenpatti check-post under the Yethapur station in the district.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chennai-organs-of-27-yr-old-accident-victim-flown-by-chopper-to-give-life-to-two-patients-393016" hreflang="en">Chennai: Organs of 27-yr old accident victim flown by chopper, to give life to two patients</a>

The victim, a 47-year old farmer, died on Wednesday, after being beaten with a cane stick&nbsp; by Periyasamy in public at the border checkpoint on Tuesday evening.

It is said that the victim had gone with his friends to the nearby Kallakurichi district to purchase liquor. When stopped by the cops, the farmer who was in an inebriated state, is said to have argued with the cops.&nbsp;

In the clip of the brutal attack, Murugesan and his friends are seen pleading with the policeman, who continued to thrash the man indiscriminately, while other cops in the vicinity looked on.

Apparently, the policeman stopped raining blows with the cane stick only after the victim fell unconscious.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/had-a-fulfilling-maiden-meeting-with-pm-modi-says-tamil-nadu-cm-mk-stalin-392231" hreflang="en">Had a fulfilling maiden meeting with PM Modi, says Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin</a>

Owing to the pandemic, 11 districts of Tamil Nadu including Salem are still under restrictions, due to which all liquor shops are shut.

Owing to such restrictions, people from such districts tend to go to some adjoining districts where the state-run liquor shops are open, despite the guidelines preventing them from doing so.

This issue was also raised in the stare legislature by leader of opposition Edappadi K Palaniswami. Chief Minister Stalin assured action and said an investigation was underway.

This incident of police brutality is reminiscent of the Jayaraj-Bennix custodial death case that took place in Tuticorin, in June 2020.&nbsp;

A police officer in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu has been arrested for brutality, after a video of the incident in Salem District has gone viral. In the video, Periyasamy is seen beating a man despite cries and pleas from the victim’s friends.

A police officer in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu has been arrested for brutality, after a video of the incident in Salem District has gone viral. In the video, Periyasamy is seen beating a man despite cries and pleas from the victim’s friends. This incident took place at the Pappinaickaenpatti check-post under the Yethapur station in the district. Also read | Chennai: Organs of 27-yr old accident victim flown by chopper, to give life to two patients The victim, a 47-year old farmer, died on Wednesday, after being beaten with a cane stick by Periyasamy in public at the border checkpoint on Tuesday evening. It is said that the victim had gone with his friends to the nearby Kallakurichi district to purchase liquor. When stopped by the cops, the farmer who was in an inebriated state, is said to have argued with the cops. In the clip of the brutal attack, Murugesan and his friends are seen pleading with the policeman, who continued to thrash the man indiscriminately, while other cops in the vicinity looked on. Apparently, the policeman stopped raining blows with the cane stick only after the victim fell unconscious. Also read | Had a fulfilling maiden meeting with PM Modi, says Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin Owing to the pandemic, 11 districts of Tamil Nadu including Salem are still under restrictions, due to which all liquor shops are shut. Owing to such restrictions, people from such districts tend to go to some adjoining districts where the state-run liquor shops are open, despite the guidelines preventing them from doing so. This issue was also raised in the stare legislature by leader of opposition Edappadi K Palaniswami. Chief Minister Stalin assured action and said an investigation was underway. This incident of police brutality is reminiscent of the Jayaraj-Bennix custodial death case that took place in Tuticorin, in June 2020.

Tamil Nadu: Policeman arrested after video of him beating a drunk person to death goes viral

Nearly 40 days after taking oath as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, MK Stalin met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at the latter’s official residence in New Delhi.

Following the meeting, Stalin said that the Prime Minister congratulated him on his election win and assured full cooperation for the development of Tamil Nadu. Stalin also said that he handed over a memorandum to the Prime Minister enlisting the demands of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-in-major-tamil-nadu-govt-hospitals-is-137-times-the-reported-figure-claims-report-by-ngo-391609" hreflang="en">Death toll in major Tamil Nadu Govt hospitals is 13.7 times the reported figure claims report by NGO</a>

Some of the major demands featured in the list include the repeal of the Three Farm laws, revoking the National Education Policy, repealing of the Citizenship Amendment Act, and Draft EIA Notification, besides the implementation of the SethuSamuthram Ship canal project among others.&nbsp;

Stalin said that he had wanted to meet the Prime Minister right after having taken over as Chief Minister, but couldn’t do so owing to the pandemic. The DMK President quoted the Prime Minister as having said that he could get in contact directly with him for any requirements.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/not-one-inch-of-forest-should-be-encroached-upon-says-madras-high-court-390387" hreflang="en">Not one inch of forest should be encroached upon, says Madras High Court</a>

Pertaining to COVID-19, Stalin had requested that more vaccine doses should be allocated to Tamil Nadu, in addition to starting vaccine production at the facilities in Chengalpattu and Coonoor.&nbsp;

Some of the other significant demands featured on the list were the expedited construction of AIIMS in Madurai, the establishment of a new AIIMS at Coimbatore, equal civil and political rights for Eelam Tamils, declaring Tamil as an official language of India and the use of Tamil language in High Court, declaring Thirukkural as the National Literature, establishing a regional branch of Supreme Court in Chennai and more.&nbsp;

The list of demands covered various subjects such as water resources issues, fisheries, power, finance, health, agriculture, industries, infrastructure projects among others. Stalin said that many of these issues could be solved by the central government alone, some could be done by the State Government (with permission from central government) and that the rest could be solved via efforts from both sides. He added that the governments should work towards fulfilling these demands and assured that his government would continue to emphasise the same.

Nearly 40 days after taking oath as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, MK Stalin met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at the latter’s official residence in New Delhi. Following the meeting, Stalin said that the Prime Minister congratulated him on his election win and assured full cooperation for the development of Tamil Nadu.

Nearly 40 days after taking oath as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, MK Stalin met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at the latter’s official residence in New Delhi. Following the meeting, Stalin said that the Prime Minister congratulated him on his election win and assured full cooperation for the development of Tamil Nadu. Stalin also said that he handed over a memorandum to the Prime Minister enlisting the demands of Tamil Nadu. Also read | Death toll in major Tamil Nadu Govt hospitals is 13.7 times the reported figure claims report by NGO Some of the major demands featured in the list include the repeal of the Three Farm laws, revoking the National Education Policy, repealing of the Citizenship Amendment Act, and Draft EIA Notification, besides the implementation of the SethuSamuthram Ship canal project among others. Stalin said that he had wanted to meet the Prime Minister right after having taken over as Chief Minister, but couldn’t do so owing to the pandemic. The DMK President quoted the Prime Minister as having said that he could get in contact directly with him for any requirements. Also read | Not one inch of forest should be encroached upon, says Madras High Court Pertaining to COVID-19, Stalin had requested that more vaccine doses should be allocated to Tamil Nadu, in addition to starting vaccine production at the facilities in Chengalpattu and Coonoor. Some of the other significant demands featured on the list were the expedited construction of AIIMS in Madurai, the establishment of a new AIIMS at Coimbatore, equal civil and political rights for Eelam Tamils, declaring Tamil as an official language of India and the use of Tamil language in High Court, declaring Thirukkural as the National Literature, establishing a regional branch of Supreme Court in Chennai and more. The list of demands covered various subjects such as water resources issues, fisheries, power, finance, health, agriculture, industries, infrastructure projects among others. Stalin said that many of these issues could be solved by the central government alone, some could be done by the State Government (with permission from central government) and that the rest could be solved via efforts from both sides. He added that the governments should work towards fulfilling these demands and assured that his government would continue to emphasise the same.

Had a fulfilling maiden meeting with PM Modi, says Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin

Captive elephants including semi-wild ones at the Theppakadu Elephant Camp in Mudumalai Tiger reserve have undergone precautionary tests for COVID-19, as per instructions from the Tamil Nadu Forest Minister. Theppakadu elephant camp is among the oldest in the country and was established in 1927. The camp and the Mudumalai Tiger reserve are run by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department.&nbsp;

Testing of the captive, semi-wild elephants comes few days after nine of 11 lions at the Arignar Anna Zoological Park (AAZP) near Chennai tested positive for COVID-19. A lioness among the pack of 11 captive lions had also succumbed to the virus at the zoo in Vandalur, near Chennai.&nbsp;

According to officials at the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve and the elephant camp, nasal and anal samples of 28(2 calf and 26 adults) jumbos were taken. These samples are meant to be sent to to a Government-run veterinary testing facility in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

When asked if the captive elephants showed any symptoms, the official told Zee Media that there were no symptoms so far and that this was a precautionary test. Even in the case of wild animals at the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Officials and their watchers have been observing them and have not seen any symptoms so far.&nbsp;

Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, located in the Nilgiris district in Tamil Nadu, but is close to the tri-junction of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Animals such as tiger, leopard, elephant, Indian Gaur (bison), sloth bear can be seen here. Owing to the ongoing lockdown in Tamil Nadu, all tourist destinations including Mudumalai are closed.

Captive elephants including semi-wild ones at the Theppakadu Elephant Camp in Mudumalai Tiger reserve have undergone precautionary tests for COVID-19, as per instructions from the Tamil Nadu Forest Minister.

Captive elephants including semi-wild ones at the Theppakadu Elephant Camp in Mudumalai Tiger reserve have undergone precautionary tests for COVID-19, as per instructions from the Tamil Nadu Forest Minister. Theppakadu elephant camp is among the oldest in the country and was established in 1927. The camp and the Mudumalai Tiger reserve are run by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department. Testing of the captive, semi-wild elephants comes few days after nine of 11 lions at the Arignar Anna Zoological Park (AAZP) near Chennai tested positive for COVID-19. A lioness among the pack of 11 captive lions had also succumbed to the virus at the zoo in Vandalur, near Chennai. According to officials at the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve and the elephant camp, nasal and anal samples of 28(2 calf and 26 adults) jumbos were taken. These samples are meant to be sent to to a Government-run veterinary testing facility in Uttar Pradesh. When asked if the captive elephants showed any symptoms, the official told Zee Media that there were no symptoms so far and that this was a precautionary test. Even in the case of wild animals at the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Officials and their watchers have been observing them and have not seen any symptoms so far. Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, located in the Nilgiris district in Tamil Nadu, but is close to the tri-junction of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Animals such as tiger, leopard, elephant, Indian Gaur (bison), sloth bear can be seen here. Owing to the ongoing lockdown in Tamil Nadu, all tourist destinations including Mudumalai are closed.

Semi-wild elephants undergo COVID-19 testing after 9 lions test positive in Indian zoo

According to a serosurvey conducted by the State Government, nearly 23 % of the tested samples had IgG antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 Virus, the infection that causes COVID-19. 
 
The state-wide survey was conducted in April this year, across all districts of the state, except Chennai. 
 
Based on 765 clusters, with each consisting of 30 individuals, the samples were taken at random from a village (in rural areas) or a street (in an urban area).&nbsp;

Completed under the supervision of Dr T.S. Selvavinayagam, Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, this survey showed that 5316 individuals of the total 22904 participants had antibodies. While the overall seroprevalence across the state was 23%, it was found to be highest in the districts adjoining Chennai - Tiruvallur (49%), Chengalpattu (43%) and Kanchipuram (38%). The lowest seroprevalence was seen at Nagapattinam District (9%).&nbsp;

Notably, the first such state-wide serosurvey conducted in Oct-Nov 2020 had revealed 31% seropositivity, which is much higher than the latest one. Back then, 6995 samples out of 22690 were found to have developed antibodies.&nbsp;

However, the Government attributes the decrease in seroprevalence to the fact that the first survey was conducted a month after the peak of the first wave, which occurred in August. In the case of the second survey, it was conducted close to the start of the second wave in Tamil Nadu. The possibility of antibodies weaning in the five-month interval between November 2020 and April 2021 is also said to be a factor, based on studies published in International journals.&nbsp;

Other factors are that vaccination coverage till March was meant to cover only the vulnerable population (above the age of 45), whereas other age groups we unvaccinated. It was also observed that there were no variants of SARS CoV -2 during the first serosurvey, whereas several variants were detected in the community during hr subsequent survey.&nbsp;

Despite Tamil Nadu reporting more than 1/5th of India’s daily COVID-19 cases and the highest for any state in the country, the state is seeing a declining trend and an appreciable higher vaccination rate. Hence, a third sero survey is proposed to be carried out between July and August this year.

According to a serosurvey conducted by the State Government, nearly 23 % of the tested samples had IgG antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 Virus, the infection that causes COVID-19.

According to a serosurvey conducted by the State Government, nearly 23 % of the tested samples had IgG antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 Virus, the infection that causes COVID-19. The state-wide survey was conducted in April this year, across all districts of the state, except Chennai. Based on 765 clusters, with each consisting of 30 individuals, the samples were taken at random from a village (in rural areas) or a street (in an urban area). Completed under the supervision of Dr T.S. Selvavinayagam, Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, this survey showed that 5316 individuals of the total 22904 participants had antibodies. While the overall seroprevalence across the state was 23%, it was found to be highest in the districts adjoining Chennai - Tiruvallur (49%), Chengalpattu (43%) and Kanchipuram (38%). The lowest seroprevalence was seen at Nagapattinam District (9%). Notably, the first such state-wide serosurvey conducted in Oct-Nov 2020 had revealed 31% seropositivity, which is much higher than the latest one. Back then, 6995 samples out of 22690 were found to have developed antibodies. However, the Government attributes the decrease in seroprevalence to the fact that the first survey was conducted a month after the peak of the first wave, which occurred in August. In the case of the second survey, it was conducted close to the start of the second wave in Tamil Nadu. The possibility of antibodies weaning in the five-month interval between November 2020 and April 2021 is also said to be a factor, based on studies published in International journals. Other factors are that vaccination coverage till March was meant to cover only the vulnerable population (above the age of 45), whereas other age groups we unvaccinated. It was also observed that there were no variants of SARS CoV -2 during the first serosurvey, whereas several variants were detected in the community during hr subsequent survey. Despite Tamil Nadu reporting more than 1/5th of India’s daily COVID-19 cases and the highest for any state in the country, the state is seeing a declining trend and an appreciable higher vaccination rate. Hence, a third sero survey is proposed to be carried out between July and August this year.

Tamil Nadu: COVID-19 antibodies detected in 23% samples of second sero survey; third survey from July-August

Following allegations of Tamil Nadu’s western belt being ignored by the ruling DMK, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister who is touring the region is facing the wrath of angry netizens and political opponents on Twitter.

The Western belt which is locally known as the ‘Kongu Belt’ is an AIADMK stronghold and largely voted against the ruling DMK. Coimbatore, the second-largest city in Tamil Nadu and an industrial hub is situated in the Kongu belt region.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dmk-ministers-comments-on-not-getting-hindi-speakers-votes-courts-trouble-bjp-objects-387725" hreflang="en">DMK minister’s comments on not getting Hindi-speakers’ votes courts trouble; BJP objects</a>

However, this region is said to have been allocated far fewer vaccines than Chennai. Coimbatore is also now the city with maximum COVID-19 cases in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Leaders from the opposition parties, BJP and AIADMK, have been pointing out the high number of deaths and spike in cases in Coimbatore when compared to Chennai, which is now seeing a daily decline in COVID-19 numbers.

In a clip of a Tamil TV debate, a DMK spokesperson was seen telling a BJP spokesperson that “if people of Coimbatore are struggling and crying in pain, they must do so before Modi. If they are crying in pain, then WhatsApp it to Modi”. &nbsp;Notably, Coimbatore South is an important assembly constituency that elected BJP Women’s wing President Vanathi Srinivasan.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadus-ongoing-lockdown-extended-until-may-31-new-guidelines-inside-386726" hreflang="en">Tamil Nadu’s ongoing lockdown extended until May 31. New guidelines inside</a>

The hashtag #GoBackStalin has been trending with more than 150,000 tweets&nbsp;and is perhaps the first time that a Tamil Nadu Chief Minister is facing this trend when touring a district of his home state.

DMK sympathisers&nbsp;countered the trend by using hashtags #Welcome_TNCM_Stalin, #WelcomeStalin and also by sharing videos of the Chief Minister wearing a PPE Suit, during a hospital inspection in Coimbatore on Sunday.

In October 2020, as Leader of Opposition Stalin had paid homage to freedom fighter and spiritual leader Muthuramaliga Thevar’s memorial in Ramanathapuram. Back then too, #GoBackStalin had trended on Twitter. Many from the AIADMK and BJP had lashed out at the DMK saying that they had nothing to do with Thevar's ideals of Nationalism and Spiritualism.

Currently, Tamil Nadu is reporting nearly 31,000 COVID-19 cases everyday, whereas the daily recoveries are around 30,000. The southern state is recording the maximum COVID-19 cases in India. Daily deaths being reported are over 450 for the past few days and over 23,000 persons have lost their lives to the pandemic. Active cases in the state are over 310, 000.

While the cases in the capital city Chennai have come down from nearly 7,000 to 2,500, it&nbsp;is the second largest district Coimbatore that is seeing a spike. Coimbatore, the Western district is now witnessing over 4,700 daily cases.&nbsp;

Following allegations of Tamil Nadu’s western belt being ignored by the ruling DMK, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister who is touring the region is facing the wrath of angry netizens and political opponents on Twitter.

Following allegations of Tamil Nadu’s western belt being ignored by the ruling DMK, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister who is touring the region is facing the wrath of angry netizens and political opponents on Twitter. The Western belt which is locally known as the ‘Kongu Belt’ is an AIADMK stronghold and largely voted against the ruling DMK. Coimbatore, the second-largest city in Tamil Nadu and an industrial hub is situated in the Kongu belt region. Also read | DMK minister’s comments on not getting Hindi-speakers’ votes courts trouble; BJP objects However, this region is said to have been allocated far fewer vaccines than Chennai. Coimbatore is also now the city with maximum COVID-19 cases in Tamil Nadu. Leaders from the opposition parties, BJP and AIADMK, have been pointing out the high number of deaths and spike in cases in Coimbatore when compared to Chennai, which is now seeing a daily decline in COVID-19 numbers. In a clip of a Tamil TV debate, a DMK spokesperson was seen telling a BJP spokesperson that “if people of Coimbatore are struggling and crying in pain, they must do so before Modi. If they are crying in pain, then WhatsApp it to Modi”. Notably, Coimbatore South is an important assembly constituency that elected BJP Women’s wing President Vanathi Srinivasan. Also read | Tamil Nadu’s ongoing lockdown extended until May 31. New guidelines inside The hashtag #GoBackStalin has been trending with more than 150,000 tweets and is perhaps the first time that a Tamil Nadu Chief Minister is facing this trend when touring a district of his home state. DMK sympathisers countered the trend by using hashtags #Welcome_TNCM_Stalin, #WelcomeStalin and also by sharing videos of the Chief Minister wearing a PPE Suit, during a hospital inspection in Coimbatore on Sunday. In October 2020, as Leader of Opposition Stalin had paid homage to freedom fighter and spiritual leader Muthuramaliga Thevar’s memorial in Ramanathapuram. Back then too, #GoBackStalin had trended on Twitter. Many from the AIADMK and BJP had lashed out at the DMK saying that they had nothing to do with Thevar's ideals of Nationalism and Spiritualism. Currently, Tamil Nadu is reporting nearly 31,000 COVID-19 cases everyday, whereas the daily recoveries are around 30,000. The southern state is recording the maximum COVID-19 cases in India. Daily deaths being reported are over 450 for the past few days and over 23,000 persons have lost their lives to the pandemic. Active cases in the state are over 310, 000. While the cases in the capital city Chennai have come down from nearly 7,000 to 2,500, it is the second largest district Coimbatore that is seeing a spike. Coimbatore, the Western district is now witnessing over 4,700 daily cases.

#GoBackStalin top Twitter trend as CM MK Stalin tours Western Tamil Nadu

The comments made by Tamil Nadu’s Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Board Minister, PK Sekar Babu have sparked controversy.

At the inauguration event of the Mahavir International Chennai Metro Foodbank, the minister made a political speech that the DMK would work for the Hindi-speakers (North Indians), despite them having voted for the BJP in large numbers.

The remark comes after Sekar Babu had won against BJP Youth Wing State president Vinoj P Selvam in North Chennai’s Harbour Constituency, which has a large share of communities from Gujarat, Rajasthan, who have resided in the area for many generations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadus-ongoing-lockdown-extended-until-may-31-new-guidelines-inside-386726" hreflang="en">Tamil Nadu’s ongoing lockdown extended until May 31. New guidelines inside</a>

Starting off his speech by lauding the food donation as the highest form of charity, the minister assured that DMK&nbsp;would take part in the charitable events of the community and support them, despite them not having voted for the 'Dravidian party'.&nbsp;

"I have been living in this region for almost 40 years. Today, the situation has changed a lot and many North Indian friends have seen economic progress, and this is because of Dravidian parties in Tamil Nadu. The BJP is not the cause for your well-being, increased standard of living or economic development, it is the Dravidian parties," Babu said, adding that, despite all this, the North Indian Community has always been voting for the BJP out of some fascination.&nbsp;

Interestingly,&nbsp;DMK and AIADMK have been in power in Tamil Nadu since 1967, following the defeat of the then Congress government.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-liquid-oxygen-to-o2-concentrators-heres-how-isro-is-aiding-indias-covid-19-battle-384558" hreflang="en">From liquid oxygen to O2 concentrators, here’s how ISRO is aiding India’s COVID-19 battle</a>

"Our DMK Member of Parliament Dayanidhi Maran asks why do we have to work for them (North Indians) when they don’t vote for us, to which I say, even they belong to this land. The MLAs and Chief Minister are common representatives, irrespective of whether some people voted for them or not. It is in that spirit that we are working for you," he added.&nbsp;

He further goes on to say that the North Indian Community vote bank did not cast their votes for DMK in Assembly and Parliamentary polls that took place in years 2014, 2016, 2019 and 2021. He claims that the DMK hardly got any votes in the region where North Indians lived in large numbers, despite the party having worked for the community.&nbsp;

In the 2021 Assembly polls, he said that in the areas where North Indians lived, DMK secured only 50 votes, whereas the BJP secured 300-350 votes. "Whenever we meet you, you say that you voted for us. But these are not ballot paper times, EVM data clearly points out which area voted for whom. You did not vote for the MLA and MP who worked for you, but how much ever you reject us, we won’t reject you. DMK is there to work for you," Babu boasted.&nbsp;

Reacting to the DMK Minister’s comments, the BJP has said that such comments are blatant threats against BJP voters. The statement also condemned the manner in which DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran raised questions (as quoted by Sekar Babu) about serving people who didn’t vote for the DMK.

"Dayanidhi Maran must clarify whether he had spoken that way, it is the height of atrocity that a Member of Parliament has said something so narrow-minded and divisive," read the statement from BJP Spokesperson Narayanan Thirupathy.&nbsp;"It is highly condemnable that Ministers who take an oath by the Constitution and represent all the people chose to refer to a section of their constituency as North Indians. By pointing out the voters choice of preferring the BJP, is like questioning the voters’ democratic right and a blatant threat from those in power."

The BJP also demanded an apology from Minister Sekar Babu and requested Chief Minister MK Stalin to condemn the minister’s remarks.&nbsp;

The comments made by Tamil Nadu’s Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Board Minister, PK Sekar Babu have sparked controversy. At the inauguration event of the Mahavir International Chennai Metro Foodbank, the minister made a political speech that the DMK would work for the Hindi-speakers (North Indians), despite them having voted for the BJP in large numbers.

The comments made by Tamil Nadu’s Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Board Minister, PK Sekar Babu have sparked controversy. At the inauguration event of the Mahavir International Chennai Metro Foodbank, the minister made a political speech that the DMK would work for the Hindi-speakers (North Indians), despite them having voted for the BJP in large numbers. The remark comes after Sekar Babu had won against BJP Youth Wing State president Vinoj P Selvam in North Chennai’s Harbour Constituency, which has a large share of communities from Gujarat, Rajasthan, who have resided in the area for many generations. Also read | Tamil Nadu’s ongoing lockdown extended until May 31. New guidelines inside Starting off his speech by lauding the food donation as the highest form of charity, the minister assured that DMK would take part in the charitable events of the community and support them, despite them not having voted for the 'Dravidian party'. "I have been living in this region for almost 40 years. Today, the situation has changed a lot and many North Indian friends have seen economic progress, and this is because of Dravidian parties in Tamil Nadu. The BJP is not the cause for your well-being, increased standard of living or economic development, it is the Dravidian parties," Babu said, adding that, despite all this, the North Indian Community has always been voting for the BJP out of some fascination. Interestingly, DMK and AIADMK have been in power in Tamil Nadu since 1967, following the defeat of the then Congress government. Also read | From liquid oxygen to O2 concentrators, here’s how ISRO is aiding India’s COVID-19 battle "Our DMK Member of Parliament Dayanidhi Maran asks why do we have to work for them (North Indians) when they don’t vote for us, to which I say, even they belong to this land. The MLAs and Chief Minister are common representatives, irrespective of whether some people voted for them or not. It is in that spirit that we are working for you," he added. He further goes on to say that the North Indian Community vote bank did not cast their votes for DMK in Assembly and Parliamentary polls that took place in years 2014, 2016, 2019 and 2021. He claims that the DMK hardly got any votes in the region where North Indians lived in large numbers, despite the party having worked for the community. In the 2021 Assembly polls, he said that in the areas where North Indians lived, DMK secured only 50 votes, whereas the BJP secured 300-350 votes. "Whenever we meet you, you say that you voted for us. But these are not ballot paper times, EVM data clearly points out which area voted for whom. You did not vote for the MLA and MP who worked for you, but how much ever you reject us, we won’t reject you. DMK is there to work for you," Babu boasted. Reacting to the DMK Minister’s comments, the BJP has said that such comments are blatant threats against BJP voters. The statement also condemned the manner in which DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran raised questions (as quoted by Sekar Babu) about serving people who didn’t vote for the DMK. "Dayanidhi Maran must clarify whether he had spoken that way, it is the height of atrocity that a Member of Parliament has said something so narrow-minded and divisive," read the statement from BJP Spokesperson Narayanan Thirupathy. "It is highly condemnable that Ministers who take an oath by the Constitution and represent all the people chose to refer to a section of their constituency as North Indians. By pointing out the voters choice of preferring the BJP, is like questioning the voters’ democratic right and a blatant threat from those in power." The BJP also demanded an apology from Minister Sekar Babu and requested Chief Minister MK Stalin to condemn the minister’s remarks.

DMK minister’s comments on not getting Hindi-speakers’ votes courts trouble; BJP objects

Vijay Shankar hasn't been at his best, with irregularities and injuries making him fade from Team India's set-up. The all-rounder, who knows about what he needs to do to get his vocation in the groove again, uncovered he is available to exchanging his state team to get more freedom with the bat.&nbsp;

The 30-year-old right now carries out his specialty for Tamil Nadu in homegrown cricket, however, he has discovered opportunities difficult to find as of late. Frequently coming in to bat down the order, Vijay Shankar feels he needs a predictable run at the top-order to demonstrate his mettle.&nbsp;

He addressed IANS about his possibilities, with Vijay Shankar laying out his objective to bat at No.4 or 5 for Tamil Nadu.

“I got into India reckoning after I performed with the bat at No. 5, I want to be in the game all the time. I have thought about changing my state team so that I can get to bat at either No. 4 or No. 5. But let's see. I hope Tamil Nadu pushes me up the order," - he said.

Nonetheless, one name that has been pushed to the sidelines is that of Vijay Shankar. The Tamil Nadu cricketer was important for India's 2019 World Cup squad, where he played three matches and scored 58 runs before a lower leg injury precluded him. When he recuperated, the Indian team had proceeded onward towards the new course, which implied the entryway was closed on Vijay Shankar. Additionally, the absence of a decent show in the IPL – 155 runs from 14 matches across two seasons made it intense for Vijay Shankar to get back to the contention.

“I don't compare myself with others. I have been bowling well for my franchise. But I have not had a very good time with the bat. Last season in the IPL, out of five innings, I walked in four times with the team chasing 10 or 12 an over. It is a challenge for anyone to take on the bowlers from the start,” - he added.

Notwithstanding Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja, India's all-round department shows up somewhat powerless. Hardik Pandya at this point can't bowl the number of overs he used to, which makes it much more interesting. With regards to India's next all-rounder, the names of Shivam Dube and Krunal Pandya ring a bell, however, neither have done what's necessary for the opportunities they have got.

“I did well in the limited opportunities I got for India. Even in the last T20 International series during the tour of New Zealand, I got some good scores while batting at No. 3 and 4. It is not that I had performed badly. I did well. My batting position was never certain. I batted at different places. In 12 ODIs, I got to bat eight or nine times and on five of those occasions, I went in with the asking rate being too high. I know that in cricket you have to be good enough to perform at any stage. But sometimes it doesn't come off or gets difficult," - he signed off.

In the event that Vijay Shankar can demonstrate his value as an all-rounder, he can unquestionably get back to India's white-ball setup. India can truly do with somebody of Vijay Shankar's type yet the 30-year-old would not like to get back in the team only for filling the all-rounder's position. Despite the fact that Vijay Shankar feels he has shown improvement over most, he needs to get back in the retribution based on something concrete.

Vijay Shankar hasn't been at his best, with irregularities and injuries making him fade from Team India's set-up. The all-rounder, who knows about what he needs to do to get his vocation in the groove again, uncovered he is available to exchanging his state team to get more freedom with the bat.

Vijay Shankar hasn't been at his best, with irregularities and injuries making him fade from Team India's set-up. The all-rounder, who knows about what he needs to do to get his vocation in the groove again, uncovered he is available to exchanging his state team to get more freedom with the bat. The 30-year-old right now carries out his specialty for Tamil Nadu in homegrown cricket, however, he has discovered opportunities difficult to find as of late. Frequently coming in to bat down the order, Vijay Shankar feels he needs a predictable run at the top-order to demonstrate his mettle. He addressed IANS about his possibilities, with Vijay Shankar laying out his objective to bat at No.4 or 5 for Tamil Nadu. “I got into India reckoning after I performed with the bat at No. 5, I want to be in the game all the time. I have thought about changing my state team so that I can get to bat at either No. 4 or No. 5. But let's see. I hope Tamil Nadu pushes me up the order," - he said. Nonetheless, one name that has been pushed to the sidelines is that of Vijay Shankar. The Tamil Nadu cricketer was important for India's 2019 World Cup squad, where he played three matches and scored 58 runs before a lower leg injury precluded him. When he recuperated, the Indian team had proceeded onward towards the new course, which implied the entryway was closed on Vijay Shankar. Additionally, the absence of a decent show in the IPL – 155 runs from 14 matches across two seasons made it intense for Vijay Shankar to get back to the contention. “I don't compare myself with others. I have been bowling well for my franchise. But I have not had a very good time with the bat. Last season in the IPL, out of five innings, I walked in four times with the team chasing 10 or 12 an over. It is a challenge for anyone to take on the bowlers from the start,” - he added. Notwithstanding Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja, India's all-round department shows up somewhat powerless. Hardik Pandya at this point can't bowl the number of overs he used to, which makes it much more interesting. With regards to India's next all-rounder, the names of Shivam Dube and Krunal Pandya ring a bell, however, neither have done what's necessary for the opportunities they have got. “I did well in the limited opportunities I got for India. Even in the last T20 International series during the tour of New Zealand, I got some good scores while batting at No. 3 and 4. It is not that I had performed badly. I did well. My batting position was never certain. I batted at different places. In 12 ODIs, I got to bat eight or nine times and on five of those occasions, I went in with the asking rate being too high. I know that in cricket you have to be good enough to perform at any stage. But sometimes it doesn't come off or gets difficult," - he signed off. In the event that Vijay Shankar can demonstrate his value as an all-rounder, he can unquestionably get back to India's white-ball setup. India can truly do with somebody of Vijay Shankar's type yet the 30-year-old would not like to get back in the team only for filling the all-rounder's position. Despite the fact that Vijay Shankar feels he has shown improvement over most, he needs to get back in the retribution based on something concrete.

‘I think I have definitely done better than most’ – Vijay Shankar eyes Team India comeback

With over 31,000 daily COVID-19 cases in the state and nearly 7,000 cases in Chennai city, the Tamil Nadu government has imposed restrictions in addition to the ongoing lockdown from May 10 to 24.

The decision to tighten the lockdown measures has been taken after consent from representatives of all major political parties, in an all-party meeting held on Thursday. As of Friday evening, the government bulletin had reported 195,000 active cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-young-scientists-at-isros-vssc-develop-ventilators-oxygen-concentrators-385016" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Young scientists at ISRO’s VSSC develop ventilators, oxygen concentrators</a>

All new curbs will come into place from 4 am on May 15 (Saturday) and will remain in place till May 24.&nbsp;

As per the new restrictions, the working hours of standalone grocery shops, supermarkets, meat shops, etc. will be from 6 am to 10 am. These shops must operate without air-conditioning and must permit only 50 per cent footfall. However, e-commerce services such as Dunzo and others will be allowed to deliver supplies from 6 am to10 am. Whereas, other E-commerce firms would be permitted to deliver goods between 2 pm and 6 pm.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-tauktae-to-hit-southern-india-heavy-rains-predicted-in-3-states-384979" hreflang="en">Cyclone Tauktae to hit southern India, heavy rains predicted in 3 states</a>

While fuel stations, ATMs and&nbsp;medical shops will be open, all other stores including footpath vendors selling vegetables, flowers have been asked to go under lockdown. Tea shops too would remain closed too.&nbsp;

E-pass has been made mandatory for domestic and even inter-district travellers (who are going for essentials such as weddings, funerals, caregiving for elderly etc.) and is to be availed on eregister.tnega.org. The E-pass would be required from 6 am of May&nbsp;17.

The existing night curfew from 10 pm to 4 am and the Sunday total lockdown will continue to be in effect.&nbsp;

With over 31,000 daily COVID-19 cases in the state and nearly 7,000 cases in Chennai city, the Tamil Nadu government has imposed restrictions in addition to the ongoing lockdown from May 10 to 24.

With over 31,000 daily COVID-19 cases in the state and nearly 7,000 cases in Chennai city, the Tamil Nadu government has imposed restrictions in addition to the ongoing lockdown from May 10 to 24. The decision to tighten the lockdown measures has been taken after consent from representatives of all major political parties, in an all-party meeting held on Thursday. As of Friday evening, the government bulletin had reported 195,000 active cases. Also read | Exclusive: Young scientists at ISRO’s VSSC develop ventilators, oxygen concentrators All new curbs will come into place from 4 am on May 15 (Saturday) and will remain in place till May 24. As per the new restrictions, the working hours of standalone grocery shops, supermarkets, meat shops, etc. will be from 6 am to 10 am. These shops must operate without air-conditioning and must permit only 50 per cent footfall. However, e-commerce services such as Dunzo and others will be allowed to deliver supplies from 6 am to10 am. Whereas, other E-commerce firms would be permitted to deliver goods between 2 pm and 6 pm. Also read | Cyclone Tauktae to hit southern India, heavy rains predicted in 3 states While fuel stations, ATMs and medical shops will be open, all other stores including footpath vendors selling vegetables, flowers have been asked to go under lockdown. Tea shops too would remain closed too. E-pass has been made mandatory for domestic and even inter-district travellers (who are going for essentials such as weddings, funerals, caregiving for elderly etc.) and is to be availed on eregister.tnega.org. The E-pass would be required from 6 am of May 17. The existing night curfew from 10 pm to 4 am and the Sunday total lockdown will continue to be in effect.

Tamil Nadu: Lockdown tightened further, night and weekend curfew to remain in place

A well-marked low-pressure area that was located near Lakshadweep early on Friday concentrated into a depression during the morning hours. This cyclonic disturbance will gradually intensify into a cyclonic storm by Sunday (May 16).

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a 'Red' alert for Kerala today and for Karnataka and Tamil Nadu on Saturday.

Parts of South India will be on the receiving end of extremely heavy rainfall caused by the soon-to-be Cyclone Tauktae over the next 2-3 days. Accordingly, heavy rain and flood alerts have been issued across multiple districts in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

"#CycloneTauktae UPDATE- 53 #NDRF teams committed, 24 teams pre-deployment, 29 teams standby-ready for 5 states Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Gujarat and Maharashtra," tweeted Director-General of NDRF Satya Pradhan.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneTauktae?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneTauktae</a> UPDATE 
14/5/2021- <a href="https://twitter.com/NDRFHQ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NDRFHQ</a> 
 
🔸53 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NDRF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NDRF</a> teams committed 
🔸24 teams pre-deployment 
🔸29 teams standby-ready 
🔸For 5 states 
🔸Kerala,Ktka,TN, 
🔸Guj,Maharashtra <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBHomeAffairs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIBHomeAffairs</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BhallaAjay26?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BhallaAjay26</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ANI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBTvpm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIBTvpm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBBengaluru?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIBBengaluru</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBAhmedabad?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIBAhmedabad</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBMumbai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIBMumbai</a> <a href="https://t.co/1ZBvE9YVIS">pic.twitter.com/1ZBvE9YVIS</a>
— ѕαtчα prαdhαnसत्य नारायण प्रधान ସତ୍ଯପ୍ରଧାନ-DG NDRF (@satyaprad1) <a href="https://twitter.com/satyaprad1/status/1393071973442355202?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In a tweet, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan asked authorities and people to follow the guidelines issued by the state disaster management authority.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Red Alert! 
 
14 May - Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta 
 
15 May - Malappuram, Kozhikkode, Wayanad, Kannur, Kasargod 
 
Follow guidelines issued by <a href="https://twitter.com/KeralaSDMA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KeralaSDMA</a>. <a href="https://t.co/fZ560UWogx">pic.twitter.com/fZ560UWogx</a>
— Pinarayi Vijayan (@vijayanpinarayi) <a href="https://twitter.com/vijayanpinarayi/status/1392822646325190661?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

A well-marked low-pressure area that was located near Lakshadweep early on Friday concentrated into a depression during the morning hours. This cyclonic disturbance will gradually intensify into a cyclonic storm by Sunday (May 16).

A well-marked low-pressure area that was located near Lakshadweep early on Friday concentrated into a depression during the morning hours. This cyclonic disturbance will gradually intensify into a cyclonic storm by Sunday (May 16). The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a 'Red' alert for Kerala today and for Karnataka and Tamil Nadu on Saturday. Parts of South India will be on the receiving end of extremely heavy rainfall caused by the soon-to-be Cyclone Tauktae over the next 2-3 days. Accordingly, heavy rain and flood alerts have been issued across multiple districts in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. "#CycloneTauktae UPDATE- 53 #NDRF teams committed, 24 teams pre-deployment, 29 teams standby-ready for 5 states Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Gujarat and Maharashtra," tweeted Director-General of NDRF Satya Pradhan. #CycloneTauktae UPDATE 14/5/2021- @NDRFHQ 🔸53 #NDRF teams committed 🔸24 teams pre-deployment 🔸29 teams standby-ready 🔸For 5 states 🔸Kerala,Ktka,TN, 🔸Guj,Maharashtra @PMOIndia @HMOIndia @PIBHomeAffairs @BhallaAjay26 @ANI @PIBTvpm @PIBBengaluru @PIBAhmedabad @PIBMumbai pic.twitter.com/1ZBvE9YVIS — ѕαtчα prαdhαnसत्य नारायण प्रधान ସତ୍ଯପ୍ରଧାନ-DG NDRF (@satyaprad1) May 14, 2021 × In a tweet, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan asked authorities and people to follow the guidelines issued by the state disaster management authority. Red Alert! 14 May - Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta 15 May - Malappuram, Kozhikkode, Wayanad, Kannur, Kasargod Follow guidelines issued by @KeralaSDMA. pic.twitter.com/fZ560UWogx — Pinarayi Vijayan (@vijayanpinarayi) May 13, 2021 × (With inputs from agencies)

Cyclone Tauktae to hit southern India, heavy rains predicted in 3 states

One cannot emphasise enough the hardships that the medical fraternity is undergoing to help the world fight COVID-19. On the occasion of International Nurses Day&nbsp;that falls on May 12th, a group of doctors and other hospital staff have made a dance video to celebrate and recogniSe the efforts of nurses who are the true frontline caregivers and healers.&nbsp;

Grooving to a version of the viral Tamil track ‘Enjoy Enjaami’, with the modified lyrics being developed in-house, Doctors and other staff of the Dr Rela Institue and Medical Center in Chennai are seen enjoying their moves in the two and a half minute video.

With some medicos clad in scrubs, some in full-body PPE kits and support staff in plainclothes, the team has pulled out all stops to depict the efforts of nurses across functions in a hospital.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/afI-N4_xBPw" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The lines have been tweaked to highlight the efforts and struggles of nurses - right from their selfies service, immense grit, love and care, nerve-wracking routines, sleep-deprived work-life, godly profession and the challenges they face in going about their work.

While the lyrics are in Tamil, the video has English subtitles for greater reach.&nbsp;

“We conceptualised this about a month ago and sought the help of a professional singer to arrange a recording studio and get the beats and tempo right. The entire thing was shot in two days, despite the hectic and herculean tasks before us. We wanted to deliver our best for the sake of our nurses, without whom nothing happens. They literally handle the Covid-19 patients and end up getting infected in large numbers, much more than doctors” Dr Deepashree, HoD, Interventional Radiology, who is also featured in the dance video told Zee media.&nbsp;

Despite the song and shoot being planned over a month ago, the singer, herself a doctor, tested positive for COVID-19, thus delaying the shoot by at least two weeks. In fact, the video only involved old clips of nurses caring for patients, as this was meant to be a secret exercise to appreciate their contributions on May 12th.&nbsp;

“Nurses don’t ever get the limelight, hence none will know the effort taken by the nurses. But, we Doctors are seen and are well-known, hence we wanted to make a contribution in this tribute to them. During tough times, cheering up each other is very important, especially as there’s a lot of gloom and fear going around… The nurses were happy and humbled about their work being recognized in this way” Dr Kavya Harika, Consultant Hepatologist said.

One cannot emphasise enough the hardships that the medical fraternity is undergoing to help the world fight COVID-19. On the occasion of International Nurses Day that falls on May 12th, a group of doctors and other hospital staff have made a dance video to celebrate and recogniSe the efforts of nurses who are the true frontline caregivers and healers.

One cannot emphasise enough the hardships that the medical fraternity is undergoing to help the world fight COVID-19. On the occasion of International Nurses Day that falls on May 12th, a group of doctors and other hospital staff have made a dance video to celebrate and recogniSe the efforts of nurses who are the true frontline caregivers and healers. Grooving to a version of the viral Tamil track ‘Enjoy Enjaami’, with the modified lyrics being developed in-house, Doctors and other staff of the Dr Rela Institue and Medical Center in Chennai are seen enjoying their moves in the two and a half minute video. With some medicos clad in scrubs, some in full-body PPE kits and support staff in plainclothes, the team has pulled out all stops to depict the efforts of nurses across functions in a hospital. × The lines have been tweaked to highlight the efforts and struggles of nurses - right from their selfies service, immense grit, love and care, nerve-wracking routines, sleep-deprived work-life, godly profession and the challenges they face in going about their work. While the lyrics are in Tamil, the video has English subtitles for greater reach. “We conceptualised this about a month ago and sought the help of a professional singer to arrange a recording studio and get the beats and tempo right. The entire thing was shot in two days, despite the hectic and herculean tasks before us. We wanted to deliver our best for the sake of our nurses, without whom nothing happens. They literally handle the Covid-19 patients and end up getting infected in large numbers, much more than doctors” Dr Deepashree, HoD, Interventional Radiology, who is also featured in the dance video told Zee media. Despite the song and shoot being planned over a month ago, the singer, herself a doctor, tested positive for COVID-19, thus delaying the shoot by at least two weeks. In fact, the video only involved old clips of nurses caring for patients, as this was meant to be a secret exercise to appreciate their contributions on May 12th. “Nurses don’t ever get the limelight, hence none will know the effort taken by the nurses. But, we Doctors are seen and are well-known, hence we wanted to make a contribution in this tribute to them. During tough times, cheering up each other is very important, especially as there’s a lot of gloom and fear going around… The nurses were happy and humbled about their work being recognized in this way” Dr Kavya Harika, Consultant Hepatologist said.

Watch: Indian doctors and hospital staff offer unforgettable tribute on International Nurses day

The issue of release of former Indian PM Rajiv Gandhi assassination convicts has again come to the fore. Shortly after the regime change, an&nbsp;ally of now-ruling DMK has demanded the long-pending release of the seven convicts.

Vaiko, general secretary of MDMK has written a letter in this regard to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin. MDMK is allied to Stalin's DMK.

“Despite not having committed the crime, Murugan, Santhan, Perarivalan are languishing as death-row convicts. Similarly, Nalini, Ravichandran, Robert Payas, Jeyakumar have lost their fruitful youth years languishing in jail and suffering mental agony” says Vaiko in his letter.&nbsp;

Vaiko has written to Stalin saying that the Supreme Court Chief Justice had left the decision about their release to the state government&nbsp;over two-and-a-half years ago.&nbsp;

“Despite the apex Court having urged the Governor to facilitate their release, the Governor has treated it like consigning the matter to the dustbin. There is no need to ask the Central Government regarding this issue, but people are being misled saying that the Central Government has denied permission for their release” reads the statement.&nbsp;

Vaiko referred to how the DMK has been vocal about releasing the seven convicts for a long time and urged MK Stalin to pass an order to release the seven convicts and fulfill the wishes of the people of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

The release of the convicts in Rajiv Gandhi assassination case has been an issue that Tamil Nadu’s political parties have been dilly-dallying over for many years.

Leaders from across parties have regularly&nbsp;expressed hope for the release of the convicts, but nothing has materialized yet. In 2020, when Home Minister Amit Shah was visiting Chennai, Tamil celebrities on Twitter trended hashtags pertaining to the release of the Rajiv Case convict Perarivalan.

The issue of release of former Indian PM Rajiv Gandhi assassination convicts has again come to the fore. Shortly after the regime change, an ally of now-ruling DMK has demanded the long-pending release of the seven convicts.

The issue of release of former Indian PM Rajiv Gandhi assassination convicts has again come to the fore. Shortly after the regime change, an ally of now-ruling DMK has demanded the long-pending release of the seven convicts. Vaiko, general secretary of MDMK has written a letter in this regard to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin. MDMK is allied to Stalin's DMK. “Despite not having committed the crime, Murugan, Santhan, Perarivalan are languishing as death-row convicts. Similarly, Nalini, Ravichandran, Robert Payas, Jeyakumar have lost their fruitful youth years languishing in jail and suffering mental agony” says Vaiko in his letter. Vaiko has written to Stalin saying that the Supreme Court Chief Justice had left the decision about their release to the state government over two-and-a-half years ago. “Despite the apex Court having urged the Governor to facilitate their release, the Governor has treated it like consigning the matter to the dustbin. There is no need to ask the Central Government regarding this issue, but people are being misled saying that the Central Government has denied permission for their release” reads the statement. Vaiko referred to how the DMK has been vocal about releasing the seven convicts for a long time and urged MK Stalin to pass an order to release the seven convicts and fulfill the wishes of the people of Tamil Nadu. The release of the convicts in Rajiv Gandhi assassination case has been an issue that Tamil Nadu’s political parties have been dilly-dallying over for many years. Leaders from across parties have regularly expressed hope for the release of the convicts, but nothing has materialized yet. In 2020, when Home Minister Amit Shah was visiting Chennai, Tamil celebrities on Twitter trended hashtags pertaining to the release of the Rajiv Case convict Perarivalan.

DMK ally urges CM Stalin to release Rajiv Gandhi assassination convicts

tamil-nadu-0

Tamil Nadu, News on Tamil Nadu, stories on Tamil Nadu, articles on Tamil Nadu, Tamil Nadu stories at Wion, Tamil Nadu news, Tamil Nadu latest news

tamil nadu-0